Delegates at the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Annual General Conference will, today Wednesday, 27th August 2025, converge at the ICC Multipurpose Hall Christopher (Alexander Sapara William) for a breakout session on the theme “Breaking the Chains of Exclusion”. The session, scheduled for 11:00am – 12:30pm, promises to be a compelling dialogue on dismantling the barriers that hinder fairness, opportunity, and inclusivity in Nigerian society.
Profiles of the Speakers
- Amb. Dr. Jake Epelle
Founder and CEO of the Albino Foundation (TAF), Dr. Epelle is a leading disability rights advocate who has spent decades pushing for inclusive policies that address the systemic challenges faced by marginalized groups, particularly persons with albinism and other vulnerable communities. - Ikem Uchegbulam, Esq.
A seasoned lawyer and advocate for justice reforms, Uchegbulam has played a pivotal role in strengthening institutional frameworks that promote access to justice. His expertise spans governance, law, and policy, with a focus on creating equitable opportunities within the legal system. - Hon. Ayuba Burki Gufwan, Esq.
Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), Hon. Gufwan has lived experience as a disability advocate and continues to champion policies that eliminate exclusion in governance, education, and employment.
- Mrs. Nella Andem-Ewa, SAN
A trailblazer in the Nigerian legal profession, Nella Andem-Ewa, SAN, FCIArb, FNIPR, is widely celebrated as an advocate, arbitrator, and thought leader on access to justice, human rights, and inclusiveness. Born on September 10, 1960, she is the Principal Partner of Lexglobal Partners, LP, a distinguished legal practice and consultancy firm with offices in Abuja and Calabar.
With over 38 years of experience, Nella has built an innovative and versatile practice spanning litigation, arbitration, commercial law, and qualitative legal advisory services to multinationals, local enterprises, and governments.
Her illustrious career has been marked by many firsts. As Attorney-General of Cross River State (1999–2003), she became the first African female lawyer to address the International Court of Justice as Counsel. In 2009, she was elevated to the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN). She has served the Body of Benchers Disciplinary Committee, and in 2018 was appointed a Life Bencher.
Currently, Nella chairs the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Administration of Criminal Justice Committee. She also serves as Chairperson of the Advisory Board of the Electoral College, is a Chartered Fellow of the Institute of Arbitration, and a member of the Energy Institute (UK). Her leadership extends further as a Council Member of the National Human Rights Commission, the Council of Legal Education, and as Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of The Leprosy Mission, Nigeria (TLMN).
Nella’s influence has also shaped national policy spaces. She was National Legal Adviser of PANDEF (2018–2024) and today sits on its Board of Trustees. Between 2017 and 2023, she served on the Legal Committee of the National Council on Privatisation. Her advocacy continues through organizations such as the League of Women Voters of Nigeria (NILOWV), the Commonwealth Business Women Nigeria, and the Efik Association for Women, Youth Development and the Aged.
She is also the 1st Alternate In-Country Representative for Nigeria at the UN CEDAW Office, Chairperson of McGuire & Stuart Nigeria Ltd, and sits on the boards of several private companies. In 2022, she was listed among Nigeria’s 100 Leading Women Leaders in Gender Perspective magazine, and in 2024 was conferred as an Honorary Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (FNIPR).
Nella is a regular speaker at national and international platforms, where she passionately advocates legal reform, gender equity, climate action, and positive social change
- Hon. Justice Simon W. Amaduobogha (Moderator)
A sitting judge of the Federal High Court, Justice Amaduobogha, brings his judicial insight to moderate this crucial conversation, ensuring balance between legal principles and practical realities. - Coordinator: Olaide Oluwayomi Ajewole
An active member of the NBA, Ajewole serves as session coordinator, ensuring the smooth running of proceedings.
On the Topic: Breaking the Chains of Exclusion
Exclusion, in its many forms—whether based on disability, gender, socio-economic background, or systemic barriers—continues to deny individuals fair access to opportunities. In Nigeria, such exclusion has historically limited the potential of countless citizens despite talent and hard work.
This session is designed to challenge entrenched norms and highlight pathways toward inclusion. By drawing from the experiences of advocates, policymakers, and jurists, the discussion will emphasize that true progress lies in dismantling barriers and building societies where circumstances do not determine success.
As one of the conference’s most anticipated sessions, it is expected to inspire renewed commitment within the legal profession to champion policies and frameworks that make justice and opportunity accessible to all Nigerians.
🔹 Session Details:
- Topic: Breaking the Chains of Exclusion
- Date: Wednesday, 27th August 2025
- Time: 11:00am – 12:30pm
- Venue: ICC Multipurpose Hall Christopher (Alexander Sapara William)
