Today, December 14, 2022, the Imo State Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Theresa E. Chukwumeka-Chikeka, the Chief Guest Of Honour, Governor Hope Uzodimma ably represented by the Deputy Governor, Prof. Placid Njoku, the Speaker, Imo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emeka Nduka, the Attorney General & Commissioner for Justice, Barr. COC Akaolisa, judges, magistrates, lawyers and some members of the State Executive Council gathered to commence the 2022/2023 Legal Year of the Imo State Judiciary.

During the one-day lecture series for the opening ceremony which held at the Justice C. Oputa High Court Complex, Owerri and organized by the Imo State Judiciary to discuss the global issue which is gender matters, I had the pleasure of serving as the Chairperson for the first session of today's series.

I wish to acknowledge the Dean, Faculty of Law, Imo State University - Prof. Ine Nnadi who was once my lecturer, for the thoughtful and insightful lecture titled, Legal Instruments for the Protection of Women's Rights in Nigeria, which she delivered outstandingly. I also extend my gratitude to the discussants of the paper; Hon. J.T.U. Nnodum SAN OFR, His Worship Opurum Josephine Esq. and Dr. Chika Eucharia Chinweze (Associate Professor of Law), their conversation led to various engaging comments and suggestions from the audience.

As the forum continues to hold intriguing sessions, I am optimistic that by the end of the ceremony, Imo State Judiciary will be empowered to continue to do excellent work in improving and implementing the existing laws to become more inclusive and diverse.

#chiomauzodimma #heimostory

H.E. Chief Barr. (Mrs.) Chioma Uzodimma
First Lady, Imo State and Founder, GoodHope Flourish Foundation.