Distinguished Colleagues.
Today is International Human Rights Day, and as you know, the ultimate essence of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) is the promotion of the rule of law. The NBA President, Mr. Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau, OON, SAN is therefore using the opportunity of today’s celebration not only to celebrate you as critical stakeholders in the promotion and defence of human rights, but also to remind us of the weight of the burden we carry.
Mr. President stated in his address, “We must always therefore, as members of the legal profession, sitting at the Bar or on the Bench, conduct ourselves within the bounds of ethics and our rules of professional conduct, as that is the only way we can earn the confidence, and command the respect of the public.”
The President challenges us all to “work daily to uphold the rights of Nigerians because human rights are the catalyst for the development we seek.” He “enjoins members of the NBA to get committed to the pro bono programme by volunteering with the NBA Pro Bono Centre”.
It should be mentioned here that the commitment of the current administration to the promotion of Human Rights is evident in the setting up of a fully functional and equipped NBA Pro Bono Centre at the National Secretariat of the NBA.
One line that resonates in the President’s address is his charge to all lawyers to work hard so that “Justice for All” will move from mere rhetoric to becoming the reality of our countrymen.
I hereby most humbly commend the full text of the inspiring address of Mr. President to you (as attached) while wishing you a truly happy Happy International Human Rights Day!
Best regards,
Charles Ajiboye, Esq.
National Assistant Publicity Secretary
