Legal Education and Democracy: NBA President’s Remarks at Nigerian Law Teachers Conference

REMARKS OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE NBA, MAZI AFAM OSIGWE, SAN, AT THE OPENING OF THE 55TH CONFERENCE OF THE NIGERIAN ASSOCIATION OF LAW TEACHERS

Protocols:

On behalf of the President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, I am honoured to deliver these remarks at the 55th Conference of the Nigerian Association of Law Teachers. Let me extend the felicitation of Mr President to University of Ilorin for hosting this important gathering, and to the Nigerian Association of Law Teachers for uniting such a distinguished network of institutions dedicated to advancing legal scholarship and education across Nigeria.

The theme of this year’s conference takes on profound significance as we reflect on Nigeria’s democratic journey since 1999, marking over two decades of modern democracy. This journey has been one of resilience and growth, underscoring both the remarkable achievements and the challenges that continue to shape our democratic evolution. As we look back on these 25 years, it becomes evident that the law has served not only as a tool for governance but as a critical safeguard for democratic values, unity, and accountability.

Since 1999, Nigeria has seen sustained efforts to build and fortify democratic institutions. These efforts have included reforms to promote transparency, strengthen the judiciary, and support the rule of law as the foundation of national progress. Yet, as we gather here today, we recognize that the work of consolidating these democratic gains is far from complete. The journey toward a truly participatory democracy—one that genuinely reflects the aspirations and welfare of all Nigerians—continues to demand the contributions of legal scholars, practitioners, and policymakers alike.

It is within this context that the Nigerian Association of Law Teachers plays such a pivotal role. The institutions represented here, from across Nigeria, have nurtured generations of legal minds who actively contribute to our nation’s democratic and developmental agenda. The University of Ilorin, along with other distinguished institutions in this Association, exemplifies the power of legal education to shape the discourse on democracy and development. This conference is a testament to the vital role that law teachers play in fostering critical dialogue, pushing for reforms, and inspiring the future custodians of our legal system.

The discussions at this conference will, no doubt, touch on fundamental questions: How can our legal frameworks better support the aspirations of Nigerians for a stable and inclusive democracy? What reforms can strengthen public trust in our institutions and ensure that democratic principles guide national development efforts? Addressing these questions is essential to closing the gap between governance and the people, particularly in a nation as diverse and dynamic as ours.

On behalf of the NBA President, I applaud the Nigerian Association of Law Teachers for convening this platform and the various institutions for their shared commitment to Nigeria’s progress. The NBA stands in solidarity with you in the mission to uphold justice, advance legal education, and support research initiatives that will inform the policies and reforms essential to our democratic future.

Thank you once again to the University of Ilorin and all participating institutions for their dedication. We look forward to the recommendations that will emerge from your deliberations, and we are confident that they will serve as a guiding force toward a more unified, just, and prosperous Nigeria.

Thank you

Bridget Edokwe

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