The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) today in Enugu, with President Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, presenting the comprehensive Annual Report of his administration’s activities over the past year.
The session marked a historic reflection on a transformative year that has repositioned the NBA as a modern, principled, and proactive Bar.
Innovation and Digitization
In just twelve months, the NBA under Osigwe’s leadership has embraced technology and innovation in unprecedented ways. History was made with the launch of the Digital Annual Practice License and the digitization of the Letter of Good Standing, ushering in a new era of seamless validation and transparency for every Nigerian lawyer.
To address long-standing member concerns, the administration resolved the delays in the production and distribution of the NBA stamp and seal, which are now promptly processed and delivered. This intervention underscored the NBA’s commitment to listening, responding, and providing real-time solutions to its members.
Professional Development and Standards
A major highlight has been the repositioning of the Institute of Continuing Legal Education (ICLE) through the introduction of a mandatory Continuing Professional Development (CPD) regime. Every lawyer is now required to earn annual CPD credits aligned with global standards, ensuring professionalism and excellence at the Bar.
Further, the creation of the NBA NEC Portal has transformed governance and internal operations. The platform digitizes registration, records, and communication, making the NBA more transparent, data-driven, and accessible to its members nationwide.
Advocacy and Defence of the Rule of Law
The administration has maintained a fearless advocacy posture. The NBA resisted unconstitutional removals of elected officials in Rivers and Benue States, defended the independence of the judiciary, condemned the abuse of citizens by security agencies, and took decisive action by relocating the NBA Annual General Conference to Enugu in defence of democratic values.
Additionally, the NBA launched the Joseph Ottey Pro Bono Scheme, created the National Litigation Committee, and advanced bold interventions in matters affecting justice delivery, access to courts, and citizens’ rights.
Expanding Global and Local Partnerships
Mazi Osigwe’s leadership has also prioritised collaboration and international engagement. The NBA deepened partnerships with global law societies, regional bar associations, and human rights organizations, positioning the Nigerian Bar as a thought leader in African and global legal discourse. Locally, bridges were built with civil society groups, state branches, and institutions of governance, enhancing the Bar’s role as the conscience of the nation.
Strengthening the NBA Constitution and Governance
The AGM also served as a landmark for internal reforms. After a robust debate, members adopted significant amendments to the NBA Constitution, strengthening governance frameworks, enhancing accountability, and ensuring sustainable institutional growth.
Additional Notable Achievements of Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, in One Year:
- Young Lawyers Empowerment: Introduced tailored support programmes, mentorship, and funding initiatives through the NBA-YLF to address the challenges of early-stage practitioners.
- Welfare Schemes: Expanded access to health insurance and emergency relief for members in distress, ensuring that the welfare of lawyers remains at the heart of the NBA’s mandate.
- Public Interest Interventions: Spearheaded advocacy against arbitrary arrests, election malpractices, and anti-democratic legislation, reinforcing the Bar’s position as a defender of human rights.
- Capacity Building: Rolled out nationwide workshops on digital law, cybercrime, arbitration, and human rights litigation, equipping members with 21st-century legal skills.
- Community Service by Branches: Encouraged and recognized branches for hosting legal aid clinics, prison decongestion programmes, and pro bono outreach across Nigeria.
A Proactive Bar for the Future
Reflecting on the progress so far, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, reaffirmed his administration’s vision:
“This is the Proactive Bar in action modern, united, principled, and ready to serve both our members and the wider society. Together, we have laid a strong foundation, and together we will continue to build an Association that stands tall as the conscience of our nation.”
Signed:
Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN
President, Nigerian Bar Association
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