As a Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, with 37 years at the Bar, I was honoured to attend the Opening Ceremony of the 2026 Annual Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association Section on Legal Practice in Lagos, a convening which advances legal practice and strengthens justice administration in Nigeria.

Under the forward-looking theme, Evolving Trends: Nigerian Legal Practice, Global Perspectives, the conference brings together leading voices from the Bar, the Bench, government, academia, and industry, reflecting a collective responsibility to shape a legal profession that is responsive to national priorities and aligned with global standards.

I was pleased to join distinguished leaders, including the Chair of the NBA Section on Legal Practice, Folashade Alli SAN, and to hear the keynote address delivered by H.E. Dr Olufemi Elias, Judge ad hoc at the International Court of Justice, alongside the presence of the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, who delivered special remarks and formally opened the conference, and whose leadership continues to guide the administration of justice at the highest level.

In Lagos, a dynamic legal and commercial hub, and as the legal landscape undergoes transformation driven by technological innovation and shifting expectations, the convening sets an influential tone for dialogue, partnership, and reform, highlighting the imperative for practitioners to embrace modernisation, deepen professional excellence, and engage meaningfully with international frameworks while safeguarding the integrity of our legal systems.

The conference also marked the launch of the NBA-SLP National Law Firm Directory 2026, the official directory of law firms in Nigeria, enhancing transparency, visibility, and professional connectivity across the sector.

I commend the Nigerian Bar Association Section on Legal Practice for convening such a consequential forum, and for its continued leadership in fostering professional development, inclusivity, and distinction across the legal community.

 

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