NBA Pre-Conference NEC Meeting in Enugu Addresses Governance, Human Rights, and Professional Standards

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) convened its Pre-Conference National Executive Council (NEC) Meeting on 23rd August 2025 at the Multipurpose Hall of the International Conference Centre, Enugu, Enugu State.

The meeting brought together distinguished delegates from NBA branches across Nigeria, combining in-person and virtual participation, to deliberate on strategic, ethical, and operational issues shaping the legal profession.

Commencement of Meeting

The NEC session commenced at 3:23 p.m. with a prayer by Dr. Garba Tetengi. Delegates reflected on the NBA’s achievements over the past year, including enhanced Continuing Legal Education (ICLE) programs, robust human rights advocacy, and promotion of professional excellence.

Opening Remarks

NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, welcomed delegates and acknowledged NBA branches for their tireless contributions to the governance and development of the Association. He emphasized the NBA’s role in advocating for justice, promoting ethical practice, and defending human rights across Nigeria.

Presentation and Adoption of Previous Minutes

The General Secretary, Dr. Mobolaji Ojibara, presented minutes from the previous NEC meeting in Ilorin, Kwara State. Following minor corrections, the minutes were formally adopted, with a motion moved by Mr. Suleiman Abubakar (Sokoto Branch) and seconded by Mr. Emmanuel Okoye (Lagos Branch).

Recognition of Dignitaries

The President formally acknowledged eminent legal personalities, including Chief Augustine Alegeh, SAN, J.S. Okutepa, SAN, Mama Harriet Balogun, SAN, and former General Secretary Johnathan Taidi, SAN. Representatives from NBA Ghana were also welcomed, reflecting the Bar’s commitment to international collaboration.

Matters Arising from the General Secretary’s Report

Key issues highlighted included:

• Tax Compliance: Education initiatives such as workshops and webinars to equip members on recently amended tax laws.
• Proliferation of Fake Lawyers: Strengthened verification processes and cooperation with law enforcement to protect the profession.
• Security Concerns: Development of protocols and advocacy with security agencies to safeguard lawyers, judicial officers, and the public.
• Professional Development: Expansion of training in emerging legal areas such as technology law, environmental law, and international trade law.

NBA President’s Report

The President reflected on his administration’s achievements and challenges, condemning rising political intolerance and breaches of legal standards. He strongly criticised the DSS screening of SAN aspirants, calling it dehumanizing and inconsistent with professional rules. He also condemned human rights violations, citing the Ibom Air passenger incident, and criticized airline operators for unlawful treatment of citizens.

The President highlighted the upcoming expiration of the NBA Trustees’ tenure and the need for constitutional compliance in appointing seven new trustees. He also criticized politically motivated security initiatives and unconstitutional policies by the Nigerian Police, pledging that the NBA, in collaboration with SPIDEL, would pursue legal action to protect citizens’ rights.

Contributions and Deliberations

• State Police: The Council debated the merits of state policing. While concerns were raised about corruption and inefficiency, delegates agreed local security outfits could complement federal policing if strictly regulated.
• Victims of Security Brutality: NEC called for proactive legal intervention and public interest litigation, emphasizing support for victims such as Ms. Comfort Emmason of the Ibom Air saga.
• DSS Screening of SAN Aspirants: NEC condemned security involvement in SAN appointments, urging a review of LPPC guidelines to protect aspirants from intimidation or delays.
• Continuing Legal Education (ICLE): Delegates reaffirmed ICLE participation under Rule 11, emphasizing specialized training for emerging practice areas.
• Tinted Glass Regulation: NEC condemned the Nigerian Police tinted glass permit policy as unconstitutional, moving to challenge it legally.

Ratification of Trustees’ Re-Appointment

The NEC unanimously ratified the extension of tenure for outgoing NBA Trustees, ensuring continuity in governance. Chief Augustine Alegeh, SAN, expressed gratitude for the confidence placed in the Trustees and emphasized accountability and transparency. The President also highlighted the importance of integrity and ethical conduct in upcoming NBA elections.

New Executive Officers

Newly elected NEC members, including Branch Chairmen and Secretaries, were formally recognized. Chief O.C.J. Okocha, SAN, encouraged ethical leadership, collaboration, transparency, and adherence to professional standards, reminding delegates that the NBA President remains the official spokesperson of the Bar.

Any Other Business

Delegates raised practical issues affecting members, including accommodation and coordination challenges. Mama Harriet Balogun, SAN, emphasized unity, inclusivity, and mentorship within the Bar, highlighting that the growth and sustainability of the NBA depend on the strength and commitment of its leadership.

Recommendations

The NEC meeting concluded with several strategic recommendations aimed at strengthening the Nigerian Bar Association, enhancing professional development, and protecting citizens’ rights:

1. Intensification of ICLE and CPD Programs: All branches are urged to increase the frequency and scope of Continuing Legal Education (ICLE) and Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programs, ensuring mandatory compliance for all members. Emphasis should be placed on emerging areas of practice such as technology law, environmental law, international trade law, and human rights law to maintain the competence and competitiveness of the Bar.
2. Legal Challenges Against Unconstitutional Policies: NEC recommended initiating legal actions to challenge policies infringing on citizens’ rights, including the Nigerian Police tinted glass permit regulation and ECMR licensing policy. These actions aim to uphold constitutional democracy and protect the public from arbitrary enforcement measures.
3. Review of SAN Screening Procedures: The NEC called for an urgent and comprehensive review of Legal Practitioners’ Privileges Committee (LPPC) guidelines to protect SAN aspirants from undue interference, demeaning processes, or delays arising from DSS or other external involvement. This recommendation underscores the need to maintain independence, dignity, and transparency in the conferment of the SAN rank.
4. Proactive Human Rights Advocacy: The Council emphasized the importance of legal interventions for victims of security and institutional abuse, including airline-related incidents and cases of police brutality. NEC recommended the development of public interest litigation strategies, stronger advocacy campaigns, and closer monitoring of law enforcement practices to safeguard human rights nationwide.
5. Strengthening Security Engagements: NEC encouraged enhanced collaboration with government authorities and security agencies to improve public safety while ensuring the independence of the legal profession. The Bar will continue to advocate for accountability, professionalism, and adherence to due process by all security actors.
6. Promotion of Ethical Governance and Transparency: All NBA organs, branches, and Trustees are urged to conduct their affairs with accountability, transparency, and inclusivity, especially in financial management, elections, and institutional oversight. NEC recommended the establishment of internal mechanisms to monitor compliance with ethical standards across all levels of the Association.
7. Capacity Building for Leadership: NEC recommended the implementation of structured mentorship and leadership programs for newly elected officers and branch executives to ensure effective governance, teamwork, and continuity of institutional knowledge.
8. Member Welfare and Professional Support: Delegates highlighted the importance of providing guidance and support to members facing legal, logistical, or professional challenges, including accommodation, safety, and access to resources. NEC recommended developing mechanisms for member support and advocacy to reinforce solidarity and confidence within the Bar.
9. Institutional Collaboration and International Partnerships: The Council encouraged continued collaboration with international bar associations, civil society organizations, and professional bodies to exchange best practices, foster professional networking, and advance the Bar’s national and international profile.
10. Monitoring and Implementation: NEC emphasized that all recommendations should be implemented with urgency, accountability, and measurable outcomes, ensuring that resolutions translate into tangible improvements for members, the public, and the profession at large.

Resolutions

NEC adopted resolutions opposing DSS screening for SAN aspirants, condemning security brutality, and challenging unconstitutional police policies. The Council reaffirmed the Bar’s commitment to protecting citizens’ rights, ethical governance, and promoting justice and the rule of law.

The meeting concluded with delegates expressing satisfaction over inclusive and constructive deliberations, reaffirming their commitment to the integrity, professionalism, and advancement of the Nigerian Bar Association.