Distinguished Colleagues,
The Nigerian Bar Association’s 66th Annual General Conference (AGC 2026) has officially commenced in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, with a solemn Jumma’at prayer at the Central Mosque, No. 203 Niger Street, Port Harcourt.
The prayer marked a significant spiritual opening to the Conference, which is being held under the theme “Beyond Limits ’26.” It brought together distinguished members of the legal profession, including Senior Advocates of Nigeria, NBA officials, members of the AGC Planning Committee and delegates from across the country.
The Chairman of the AGC 2026 Planning Committee, Abdul Mohammed, SAN, attended the Jumma’at prayer alongside several prominent members of the Bar. Also present were the President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN; Mustapha Shuaibu Agbarere, SAN; Musa Attah, SAN; Sammie Somiari, SAN; Dr. Mobolaji Ojibara, General Secretary, NBA; Afam Okeke, General Secretary-Elect, NBA; Isah Aliyu, Past Chairman, NBA Gwagwalada Branch; Chief Emeka JP Obegolu, SAN; Etaba Agbor, National Young Lawyers Forum Secretary; and other distinguished members of the Bar.
The Jumma’at service offered more than a ceremonial commencement of AGC 2026. It created an opportunity for reflection on the values that should guide individuals, professionals and institutions in their service to humanity.
The sermon emphasised the importance of living a worthy and purposeful life, with the Imam admonishing worshippers and members of the Bar to avoid unhealthy lifestyles and conduct themselves in accordance with the values and teachings of the Holy Book.
The message resonated particularly with the spirit of “Beyond Limits ’26” — a theme that challenges the legal profession to look beyond professional boundaries and consider the greater responsibilities that accompany knowledge, leadership and influence.
A life of purpose, integrity and service requires more than professional achievement. It demands honesty in dealings, accountability in leadership, compassion towards others, respect for human dignity and a conscious commitment to doing what is right even when no one is watching.
The Jumma’at setting also provided an appropriate reminder of the importance of justice, fairness, humility, discipline and responsibility — values that are fundamental not only to faith but also to the legal profession.
For members of the Bar, these values are particularly significant. Lawyers occupy positions of considerable influence in society and are entrusted with the protection of rights, the pursuit of justice and the advancement of the rule of law. The profession therefore carries a responsibility to ensure that professional success is accompanied by sound character and a genuine commitment to the public good.
The sermon further underscored the need to care for one’s health, avoid destructive habits, maintain peaceful relationships, respect fellow human beings and contribute positively to society.
A CALL TO SERVICE AND COMMUNITY RESPONSIBILITY
The Imam congratulated the Nigerian Bar Association on the commencement of its Annual General Conference and welcomed members of the Bar to Port Harcourt. He also appealed for support towards the development and building project of the mosque, calling on members of the legal profession to lend their support to the growth of the place of worship.
The appeal served as another reminder of the importance of community responsibility and collective contribution. Beyond their professional obligations, members of the legal profession have an opportunity to support institutions and initiatives that promote education, faith, welfare, peace and human development.
ABDUL MOHAMMED, SAN, APPRECIATES MOSQUE AND WORSHIPPERS
Speaking after the prayer, the Chairman of the AGC 2026 Planning Committee, Abdul Mohammed, SAN, expressed appreciation to the mosque, the Imam and all worshippers for receiving members of the Nigerian Bar Association.
He particularly acknowledged the presence of the NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, as well as the other senior members and delegates who joined him at the Jumma’at prayer.
Abdul Mohammed, SAN, also appreciated the members of the Bar who participated in the spiritual opening of the Conference, noting the significance of beginning the 66th Annual General Conference on a reflective and unifying note.
BEYOND PROFESSIONAL LIMITS
The commencement of AGC 2026 at the mosque offered a fitting reminder that the concept of going “Beyond Limits” extends beyond professional accomplishments.
It speaks to the responsibility of lawyers to go beyond self-interest; beyond indifference; beyond the pursuit of titles and recognition; and beyond the boundaries of the courtroom in contributing to the advancement of society.
It calls for a profession that is not only intellectually strong, but also ethical, compassionate, socially responsible and committed to justice.
As lawyers from across Nigeria gather in Port Harcourt for the 66th Annual General Conference, the spiritual opening has set a reflective tone for the days ahead — reminding members of the Bar that true distinction is measured not only by what one achieves, but also by the lives one touches, the values one upholds and the difference one makes in society.
With the Jumma’at prayer, AGC 2026 has officially begun.
The Conference now moves forward with a renewed call to challenge limitations, embrace possibilities and serve with greater purpose.
BEYOND LIMITS ’26
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