A new chapter has officially begun in the history of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Benin (Lion) Branch, following the inauguration of a new Executive Committee led by Omorodion Omoigui, Esq., as Chairman.
The newly elected officers were formally sworn into office on Monday, August 31, 2026, at the Constance Momoh Hall, NBA Benin Secretariat, marking the commencement of a fresh two-year administration founded on service, accountability, professional development, and an unwavering commitment to the Rule of Law.
The oath of office was administered by Hon. Justice A. T. Momodu, representing the Chief Judge of Edo State, Hon. Justice D. I. Okungbowa. Before members of the Bar and the Bench, the newly inaugurated Executive Committee pledged to discharge their duties faithfully, uphold the Constitution of the Nigerian Bar Association, and serve the interests of the Association with integrity, diligence, and professionalism.
More than a ceremonial exercise, the oath underscored the solemn responsibility entrusted to the new leadership to preserve the ethics of the legal profession, defend the independence of the Bar, and promote justice and the Rule of Law.
The colourful inauguration attracted an impressive gathering of distinguished legal practitioners and judicial officers, including Professor Roland Itoya Otaru, SAN, Edo State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Stephen Okoror, Esq., the Solicitor-General of Edo State, as well as past Chairmen of the Branch, including Chief Razak Isenalumhe (Bencher), Ede Asenoguan, Esq., Prince Collins Benson Ogiegbaen, Esq., and Pius Oiwoh, Esq., alongside numerous members of the Lion Bar.
A Leadership Transition Rooted in Service
In his farewell remarks, the immediate past Chairman, Idemudia Iredia Osifo, Esq., reflected on the achievements of his administration and formally handed over the leadership of the Branch to the incoming Executive Committee.
Charging the new Chairman on the responsibilities ahead, Osifo observed that the Branch does not necessarily require a Chairman who is loved by everyone, but one who genuinely loves the Bar and possesses the courage, capacity, and commitment to advance its collective interests.
His remarks served as a fitting reminder that leadership within the Bar is measured not by popularity, but by dedication to service and institutional growth.
Six-Point Agenda for a Stronger Lion Bar
Delivering his inaugural address, Chairman Omorodion Omoigui, Esq. unveiled the administration’s six-point agenda, which will serve as the foundation of the Branch’s programmes over the next two years.
The administration’s priorities include:
– Welfare
– Unity and Inclusiveness
– Transparency and Accountability
– Capacity Building
– Rule of Law
– Infrastructure and Digitalization
On welfare, the Chairman announced several initiatives aimed at improving the wellbeing of members across all generations. These include exemptions from dinner fees and Law Week registration for lawyers of five years post-call and below, as well as members aged 70 years and above, alongside proposed health and other welfare programmes.
He also pledged to strengthen unity within the Branch by fostering collaboration between senior and young lawyers, encouraging mentorship, and promoting inclusiveness across all segments of the Lion Bar.
To enhance accountability, the administration committed to presenting its budget and periodic financial reports during monthly meetings, assuring members of prudent and transparent financial management.
Recognising the evolving legal landscape, the Chairman also emphasised continuous legal education, specialised training, mentorship opportunities, and exposure to emerging areas of legal practice, including business, investment, and corporate law.
Strong Commitment to the Rule of Law
A defining feature of the inaugural address was the administration’s unequivocal commitment to defending the Rule of Law.
Chairman Omoigui affirmed that the Lion Bar would continue to hold public institutions accountable, speak truth to power without fear or favour, and equally acknowledge government actions that uphold constitutional principles and good governance.
He further disclosed that the Branch would, in the coming days, take appropriate legal steps regarding the recent repeal of laws by the Edo State House of Assembly, which, according to the Branch, affect the institutional independence of the Legislature and the Judiciary.
He described the development as one raising significant constitutional concerns relating to the doctrine of separation of powers and reaffirmed the Branch’s readiness to defend democratic institutions through lawful means.
Modernising the Lion Bar
On infrastructure and digital transformation, the Chairman announced plans to upgrade the NBA Benin Bar House to make it more functional, modern, and technologically equipped.
He also disclosed that various committees would be constituted during the Branch’s September meeting to drive the implementation of the administration’s programmes and ensure effective delivery of its vision.
A New Journey Begins
With the inauguration concluded, the Omorodion Omoigui-led Executive Committee has officially assumed responsibility for steering the affairs of the NBA Benin (Lion) Branch over the next two years.
While the administration has presented an ambitious roadmap anchored on welfare, unity, accountability, professional development, institutional independence, and modernisation, the true measure of its success will lie in the faithful implementation of these commitments.
As the baton passes from one administration to another, members of the Lion Bar look forward to a tenure defined by visionary leadership, purposeful service, and meaningful progress.
The expectations are high, the mandate is clear, and the work has begun.
