The Kogi director of the National Orientation Agency, Aileku Ayedime, has pledged the agency’s readiness to collaborate with the International Federation of Women Lawyers on the provision of pro bono legal services.

Ms Ayedime made the pledge on Wednesday in Lokoja during a stakeholders’ consultation meeting with female judicial officers.

She said the collaboration would support the establishment of moot courts where members of the public could obtain free legal advice and assistance.

”We should be able to partner with FIDA in the establishment of moot courts where people can come to get legal advice pro bono,” Ms Ayedime said.

The NOA director revealed that the agency had established gender desks in its state offices to provide support for people seeking assistance on judicial and related matters.

Ms Ayedime noted that the promotion of human rights, equal opportunities, justice, fairness and equality forms part of the National Values Charter currently being promoted by the agency.

Ms Ayedime further stressed the need for inclusion of persons living with disabilities, noting that many of them still faced discrimination and social exclusion.

She reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to partnerships aimed at promoting justice, equity and social inclusion in the society.

As part of efforts to strengthen collaboration, Ayedime presented copies of the National Anthem to the chairwoman of FIDA in Kogi, Oluwakemi Usman.

(NAN)