At the ongoing Nigerian Bar Association Annual General Conference (NBA-AGC) 2025, themed “Stand Out, Stand Tall”, the first breakfast session titled “Set Forth at Dawn” delivered a strong call to action for Nigerian lawyers and leaders to embrace discipline, foresight, and decisive engagement in a rapidly changing world.
The session, coordinated by Prof. Festus Emiri, SAN, one of Nigeria’s most respected jurists and academics, featured a distinguished panel: Mia Essien, SAN, a trailblazing advocate and former NBA Vice President; George Okoro, technology policy expert and advocate for innovation in governance;
Abdul Mohammed, SAN, seasoned constitutional lawyer and litigator; and Osita Chidoka, OFR, NPOM, former Minister of Aviation and public policy strategist. The discussion was moderated by celebrated actor and lawyer, Kanayo O. Kanayo, while a team of rapporteurs led by Victor Munachi Nzebunachi documented proceedings.
Framing the Topic: Dawn as Renewal and Readiness
The metaphor of dawn was presented as both symbolic and practical—representing clarity, discipline, and renewal. Participants noted that waiting for ideal conditions stalls progress, while courage and early preparation empower individuals and institutions to thrive despite uncertainty.
Key Observations
- Discipline, Foresight, and Preparedness: Panelists emphasized that advocacy requires more than talent—it demands early planning, rigorous research, and anticipation of challenges. The early hours of the day, they agreed, best represent the clarity needed for legal excellence.
- The Dangers of Procrastination: Procrastination was identified as a systemic weakness in the justice sector. “Justice delayed is justice denied,” panelists reiterated, noting that late preparation and delayed reforms erode public trust.
- Resilience, Mentorship, and Value Creation: Mentorship was hailed as vital to guiding younger lawyers, while resilience and innovation were stressed as the cornerstones of value creation in an increasingly competitive profession.
- Responsible Use of Technology: While Artificial Intelligence and digital tools now play a growing role in research and consultation, the panel urged caution, emphasizing the need for responsible use that complements, not replaces, professional judgment.
Reform Agenda for Legal Practice
The session also spotlighted outdated provisions of the Legal Practitioners Act and the Rules of Professional Conduct, particularly those restricting lawyers from engaging in complementary vocations. Panelists agreed these laws no longer reflect current realities.
Recommendation: The NBA, working with stakeholders, should urgently modernize these frameworks to align with global best practices, encourage multidisciplinary innovation, and ensure Nigerian lawyers remain competitive in today’s complex economy.
Profiles of Session Speakers
- Prof. Festus Emiri, SAN: Esteemed legal scholar, jurist, and Professor of Jurisprudence with decades of service in shaping Nigerian legal thought.
- Mia Essien, SAN: Renowned advocate, former Vice President of the NBA, and a leading figure in advancing women’s participation in the legal profession.
- George Okoro: Governance and policy expert with strong focus on technology regulation and institutional reforms.
- Abdul Mohammed, SAN: Prominent constitutional lawyer and seasoned litigator known for his bold interventions in national legal debates.
- Osita Chidoka, OFR, NPOM: Former Minister of Aviation and public intellectual, recognized for his contributions to leadership, governance, and strategic communication.
- Kanayo O. Kanayo: Veteran Nollywood actor, lawyer, and public speaker, who brought a unique blend of wit and insight as moderator.
The “Set Forth at Dawn” session set the tone for the NBA-AGC 2025, underscoring that for lawyers to stand out and stand tall, they must prepare early, act decisively, and innovate boldly in service of justice and nation-building.
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