At a breakout session of the just-concluded 65th Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in Enugu, Hon. Justice B.A. Waziri of the Borno State High Court delivered a compelling paper on the theme “Owning in a Changing Environment.”
Speaking before what he described as “the largest gathering of lawyers in Africa,” Justice Waziri congratulated the organizers and commended the Local Organizing Committee led by Chief Emeka Obegolu, SAN, for spotlighting the importance of adapting to rapid change in society, law, and governance.
Justice Waziri defined “owning in a changing environment” as the ability to embrace uniqueness, leverage strengths, remain innovative, and proactively navigate challenges. He stressed that ownership goes beyond property or assets—it includes accountability for one’s actions, resilience in adversity, and the courage to inspire others while upholding values and integrity.
“In a time of rapid change, owning in a changing environment means staying agile, open to new ideas, technologies, and solutions, while demonstrating courage and determination. It is about being accountable and proactive, not passive in the face of challenges,” he declared.
The Judge warned that Nigeria’s socio-economic realities—climate change, infrastructural deficits, corruption, and economic instability—demand urgent responses rooted in sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation. He called for diversification of the economy beyond oil, investment in technology and education, and policies that promote equitable distribution of resources.
He further highlighted the dangers of economic inequality, noting its links to poverty, unemployment, social unrest, crime, weakened cohesion, and brain drain. According to him, bridging inequality requires progressive taxation, infrastructure development, entrepreneurship, improved access to credit, and strong social protection programs.
Justice Waziri also stressed that social justice must be at the core of Nigeria’s development agenda. He urged legal practitioners and policymakers to promote fairness, fight discrimination, expand access to justice, protect human rights, and empower vulnerable groups, particularly women, children, and persons with disabilities.
“As judges and lawyers, we are not just advocates, but guardians of the rule of law and champions of justice. We have a sacred responsibility to ensure fairness, equity, and human dignity. Our collective effort must be to build a future where every Nigerian can thrive in a changing environment,” Justice Waziri concluded to resounding applause.
The breakout session, which was part of the NBA-AGC 2025’s broader theme “Stand Out, Stand Tall”, drew wide participation and set the tone for further discourse on sustainability, innovation, and the role of the legal profession in national development.
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