NBA-AGC 2025 – Pioneering Legal Reform For Better Future: Enugu’s Glory
Editor
In a week reflection, the 67th Annual General Conference (AGC) of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), held from August 22 to 29, 2025, at the International Conference Centre (ICC), Enugu, marked a significant moment in the evolution of Nigeria’s legal landscape. With its theme “Stand Out, Stand Tall,” the conference brought together an impressive array of legal luminaries, industry captains, political leaders, and civil society members to deliberate on pivotal issues shaping the future of the legal profession both in Nigeria and across Africa.
-Setting the Stage for Change
The conference opened with stirring addresses that set the tone for transformative discussions. His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, CFR, Sultan of Sokoto, emphasised the foundational role of law in fostering order, justice, and peace in society. He called upon legal practitioners to be the vanguards of reform, particularly advocating for systems that ensure access to justice for the most vulnerable segments of the population. His address resonated deeply with the attendees, reinforcing the idea that lawyers bear a critical responsibility in championing equitable legal practices.
Adding an international perspective to the discourse, Hon. Julius Malema, MP and Leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) from South Africa, delivered a powerful keynote address that sparked vigorous debate among participants. Malema’s call for the decolonisation of legal systems in Africa was not merely a critique but a clarion call for African lawyers to dismantle oppressive structures and create legal frameworks deeply rooted in African identity, dignity, and pride. His words echoed the necessity for a radical rethinking of legal paradigms to better serve the unique cultural and societal contexts of African nations.
The Opening Ceremony was further graced by the presence of Dr Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, Governor of Enugu State, who highlighted the critical role that the legal profession plays in bolstering democracy, fortifying institutions, and steering national reforms. His remarks underscored the idea that a robust legal framework is essential for the development of a stable and prosperous society.
Beyond the inspiring appearance of Governor Mbah at the conference, the exceptional success of the 67th AGC was generally attributed to the governor’s uncommon achievement in governance which put in place a perfect environment for such an elite gathering.
In fact, the Enugu’s glory of the NBA-AGC 2025 has not left the lips of the Nigerian lawyers since a week after, indeed not likely to leave any time soon and certainly will remain forever in the memories of all that had a share of the Enugu experience in the 67th conference of the legal professionals. Of course, who will forget the comfort of the perfect security, the transit system, city aesthetics and overall development aura?
-Charting New Paths in Legal Governance
Over the course of the week, participants engaged in varying dialogues, workshops, and panel discussions focusing on crucial themes such as justice, governance, and the advancement of legal practices. The discussions highlighted an urgent need for reform of the Legal Practitioners Act (LPA) and the Rules of Professional Conduct (RPC) in Nigeria to align with global standards. This focus illustrates a broader ambition within the NBA to not only enhance local practices but also to ensure that Nigeria’s legal systems reflect international best practices in an increasingly globalised world.
The reform agenda discussed at the conference aims to address inefficiencies and promote accountability within the legal profession. With calls for stringent ethical guidelines and enhanced mechanisms for ensuring compliance, the goal is to foster greater trust in the legal system among the public.
-A Future-Ready Legal Profession
Participants at the AGC were invigorated by the notion that the legal profession must adapt to the challenges posed by modern society, including technological advancements, social justice issues, and the changing expectations of clients. Acknowledging the critical intersection of law with other societal factors, there was a consensus that comprehensive training and continuous legal education will be vital to prepare lawyers for the evolving landscape.
The conference also addressed the need for increased collaboration between legal stakeholders and the judiciary, alongside commitments to providing pro bono services to underserved communities. This commitment reflects a growing recognition of social responsibility as a pillar of the legal profession.
-A Call to Action
The AGC 2025 represented far more than just a gathering of legal professionals; it was a convocation of minds united in the pursuit of reform, justice, and accountability. As the conference concluded, participants left with a renewed sense of purpose and urgency. Aligned on the importance of pushing for comprehensive reforms in the LPA and RPC, attendees reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that the legal profession not only serves its practitioners but also the diverse communities it represents.
With the echoes of the conference still resonating throughout the hallways of the ICC, the NBA is poised to embark on a journey toward a reformed and more just legal landscape, driven by a collective vision of inclusivity and empowerment that not only meets the needs of today but also champions the rights of future generations.
EDITOR
Sam Udekwe is a journalist working in the News and Current Affairs department, Enugu State Broadcasting Service (ESBS) Enugu. He is well trained in all genres of journalistic venture.
Mr Sam read Mass Communication, graduating all with Distinction in National Diploma, Higher National Diploma and Postgraduate Diploma at IMT, Enugu and Madonna University, Okija, Anambra state, as well as M.Sc Mass Communication with Second Class(Upper Division) at National Open University of Nigeria.
He is the immediate past NUJ Chairman, Enugu state.
samowailo@gmail.com
