Protocols:
The President, National Officers, Learned Senior Advocates of Nigeria, Gentlemen of the Press,
Distinguished colleagues,
I stand before you today with immense gratitude and deep appreciation for the Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (ECNBA), led by the distinguished Senior Advocate, Reverend Mr. Oluseun Abimbola, SAN.
Thank you, Chairman and the ECNBA team, for your exceptional service in conducting the 2024 NBA National Elections.
The ECNBA Chairman mentioned the tough decisions that had to be made to bring us to where we are today. I vividly recall the challenging decision to establish the ECNBA, a decision made with faith and entrusted to God Almighty. We are grateful to God for enabling the ECNBA to undertake and successfully complete this monumental task.
BA team remained steadfast. Many people questioned whether the elections would proceed as planned, and I assured them we were on track. I was often asked why I appeared calm, and I responded with confidence, knowing that the ECNBA was in capable hands. People even remarked on the chairman’s relaxed demeanor before the elections, a testament to the committee’s confidence and preparedness.
I extend my heartfelt thanks to Seun Abimbola, Musa Yahaya, and the entire ECNBA team. Your enormous and significant task has honoured our association, and your dedication has made it possible.
I must also acknowledge the words of Sapara Williams, whose efforts are part of our collective responsibility as members of this profession to provide direction to the people. Today, we have set an example of what Nigeria should aspire to regarding electoral processes, and all glory goes to God Almighty.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the candidates who participated in the elections. Your desire to lead the Bar in various capacities is commendable and a testament to your commitment and sacrifice.
According to the ECNBA, the following persons emerged winners and have been returned as members of the NBA National Executive Committee:
- Mazi Afam Josiah Osigwe, SAN, President
- Sebastine Anyia, 1st Vice-President
- Mrs. Bolatumi Olasunbo Animashaun, 2nd Vice President
- Mrs Zainab Aminu Garba, 3rd Vice-President
- Dr. Mobolaji Idris Ojibara, General Secretary
- Mr. Henry Barnabas Ehi, Assistant General Secretary
- Mrs. Blessing Imo Udofa-Poromon, Treasurer
- Mr. Nyada Auta, Welfare Secretary
- Mrs. Bridget Ijeoma Edokwe, Publicity Secretary
- Miss. Ebiere Emmanuella Ekpese, Assistant Publicity Secretary
While not everyone can win, your participation is invaluable. To those who did not win, I commend your efforts and urge you to support your elected colleagues. Your support strengthens the Bar and helps us build a purposeful and united association, fulfilling our primary responsibility to guide the nation.
I had the privilege of speaking with the three presidential candidates, and it is remarkable to see three brothers vying to succeed me, knowing that only one would ultimately do so.
The ECNBA has declared a winner through a process defined by our constitution. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Mazi Afam Josiah Osigwe, SAN, who will, by the grace of God, succeed me as the 32nd President of the Nigerian Bar Association.
Congratulations, Mazi Afam Josiah Osigwe. I am confident that the NBA will continue to thrive under your leadership and make significant strides.
Thank you all for your support and cooperation throughout this electoral process. Let us continue to work together to better our association and our nation.
Thank you.
Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau, OON, SAN
President, Nigerian Bar Association