Advancing Women’s Rights, Justice, and Global Partnerships
The Committee of Friends for Humanity (COFFHA), a women-focused non-governmental organization established in 1993 in Lagos, Nigeria, proudly participated in the 70th Session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70), held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York from March 9–19, 2026. Coffha attained consultative status with ECOSOC in —
Founded with the vision of serving individuals and families in underserved communities, COFFHA continues to champion hope, dignity, inclusion, and social justice for women, children, and vulnerable populations. Participation at CSW70 marked another important milestone in the organization’s commitment to global advocacy and sustainable development for women and girls.
The COFFHA delegation was led by the President, Augustina Igbokwe, Esq, alongside distinguished members including Chief Carolyn Akum Ufere, Co founder Ambassador Iyom Christy Ray Okoye, Lady Ngozi Kay Okoro, Barr. Obiageli Anubi, and Lady Ijeoma Otti Onyeri.
About CSW70
The 70th Session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women brought together governments, civil society organizations, development partners, advocates, and global leaders to advance gender equality and women’s empowerment.
The 2026 priority theme focused on:
“Ensuring and strengthening access to justice for all women and girls.”
The review theme examined:
“Women’s full, equal, and meaningful participation in decision-making and public life, and the elimination of violence against women and girls.”
The conference provided a strategic platform for dialogue, policy engagement, collaboration, and global advocacy aimed at accelerating progress toward gender equality and inclusive development.
Key Highlights of COFFHA’s Participation
Engagement at the UN Secretary-General’s Townhall
One of the major highlights of CSW70 was the Townhall Meeting hosted by the Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres, with NGOs, civil society organizations, and government representatives.
During the engagement, the Secretary-General passionately addressed the growing challenges facing women’s rights globally, describing the current resistance to gender equality as: “A bitter wind”and “the swan song of patriarchy.”
He encouraged women across the world to remain courageous and persistent in advocating for equality and justice, urging them to: “Keep shaking the foundations of privilege.”
The session reinforced the urgent need for collective action, stronger female leadership, and sustained advocacy to protect and advance the rights of women and girls worldwide.
Volunteer Service and Active Participation
In the spirit of service and collaboration, some COFFHA members served as volunteers during CSW70, supporting conference coordination, side events, and logistics management. Their contributions reflected COFFHA’s commitment to professionalism, leadership, and global engagement.
Participation in High-Level Side Events
COFFHA delegates actively participated in several strategic side events and policy dialogues during the conference.
Nigeria’s Minister of Women Affairs Side Event
COFFHA members attended the side event hosted by Nigeria’s Minister of Women Affairs, which attracted distinguished leaders and stakeholders including:
- Hajiya Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim
- Pauline Tallen
- State First Ladies
- Diplomats and international representatives, including the Nigerian Ambassador to Burkina Faso
The event provided an opportunity to discuss policy reforms, women’s inclusion, and collaborative approaches toward national and global gender development.
High-Level Dialogue on the Future of Work and Justice
COFFHA delegates also participated in a high-level dialogue themed: “Shaping the Future of Work and Justice.”
The session was hosted by Vivacity Development in partnership with Sam Empowerment Foundation and The New Africa Group.
Discussions focused on economic empowerment, inclusive opportunities for women, equitable access to justice, and the future of leadership and work for women across Africa and beyond.
Abia State First Lady’s Side Event
COFFHA members also attended the impactful side event hosted by Priscilla Otti, which attracted broad participation and conversations around women’s welfare, leadership, and community development initiatives.
Promoting COFFHA’s Mission on the Global Stage
Throughout the conference, COFFHA delegates actively distributed organizational flyers and engaged participants from across the world, creating awareness about the organization’s mission, programs, and long-standing commitment to humanitarian service and women’s empowerment.
The conference served as an important platform to showcase COFFHA’s work in Nigeria and strengthen its visibility within the international development community.
Impact and Benefits of Participation
COFFHA’s participation in CSW70 yielded several important outcomes, including:
- Increased Global Visibility and Credibility
Participation at a prestigious United Nations conference further strengthened COFFHA’s international presence and reputation as a committed advocate for women and vulnerable communities.
- Strategic Networking Opportunities
The conference created opportunities to connect with influential women leaders, diplomats, policymakers, civil society organizations, and development partners from around the world.
- Knowledge Exchange and Capacity Building
Delegates gained valuable insights into emerging global trends, innovative strategies, and best practices in gender advocacy, justice, and sustainable development.
- Expanded Advocacy Platform
CSW70 amplified COFFHA’s voice in advancing women’s empowerment, social inclusion, and equitable access to opportunities for women and girls.
- Partnership and Resource Mobilization Opportunities
Engagements during the conference opened doors for future collaborations, partnerships, and resource mobilization initiatives aimed at strengthening COFFHA’s programs and impact
Looking Ahead
COFFHA remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering women, supporting vulnerable communities, and promoting social justice through advocacy, partnership, education, and humanitarian service.
Participation at CSW70 has further inspired the organization to deepen its impact both locally and internationally while continuing to contribute meaningfully to global conversations on gender equality, justice, and sustainable development.
As COFFHA continues its journey of service, the organization welcomes partnerships, collaborations, and support from individuals, institutions, donors, and development organizations who share its vision of a more just, inclusive, and equitable society.
About COFFHA
The Committee of Friends for Humanity (COFFHA) is a women-focused NGO established in 1993 in Lagos, Nigeria. The organization is dedicated to serving disadvantaged individuals and families by promoting hope, dignity, empowerment, and social justice through humanitarian and community-based initiatives.
