…Commits to providing values to its members
By Chinenye Anuforo
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Surulere Branch officially launched its operations with a glamorous Bar Dinner on Friday, December 6, 2024. The event, held at The Marquee, Eagle Club in Surulere, Lagos, marked a significant milestone for the newly established branch.
In his keynote speech, Branch Chairman Anene Nwadukwe expressed his gratitude to all who contributed to the Branch’s formation, particularly the Branch Actualization Committee and the NBA leadership. He highlighted the role of the Lagos State Chief Judge, Kazeem Alogba, in creating the Yaba-Surulere Judicial Division, a crucial step in establishing the Branch.
He expressed his enthusiasm for the launch, stating, “This dinner is not just a gathering; it’s an introduction of the NBA Surulere Branch to the surrounding communities. We aim to attract lawyers practicing in areas like Surulere, Yaba, Apapa, FESTAC, Amuwo-Odofin, and even Ago.”
Since its inception in May 2024, the Branch has been actively engaged in various initiatives. These include organizing seminars for young lawyers, inviting senior practitioners to share their experiences, and addressing ethical concerns within the legal profession.
Nwadukwe emphasized the Branch’s commitment to providing value to its members and the legal community. He outlined ambitious plans, including acquiring an office space, equipping it with necessary tools, and hiring staff. The Branch also aims to procure a bus for members to attend NBA functions and engage in welfare activities.
“We appeal to our colleagues, family, and friends to join us in making our Branch a success,” Nwadukwe said. “We need significant financial resources and equipment to achieve our goals.”
The Chairman also stressed the importance of mentorship and collaboration within the legal profession. He encouraged senior lawyers to support young lawyers, ensuring they are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel.
Also speaking on the sideline of the event, Malizu Iwudoh, the branch’s dinner committee chairman, stated the dinner marked a significant milestone for the legal community in the region and aimed to officially introduce the NBA Surulere Branch to the legal fraternity and the general public. “It provided a platform for lawyers to network, celebrate their profession, and discuss pressing legal issues”, he stated.
Iwudoh emphasized the branch’s commitment to upholding the principles of justice, equity, and fairness. He highlighted the role of lawyers in ensuring that the rights of all Nigerians are protected and that the government adheres to the rule of law.
“As lawyers, we are dedicated to upholding the tenets of the NBA and advocating for the rights of Nigerians,” Iwudoh stated.
He added the NBA has taken proactive steps to address unethical practices within the legal profession. “The introduction of lawyer seals has proven to be effective in reducing such misconduct”, he stated.
In his opening remarks, Justice Kazeem Olanrewaju Alogba represented by Justice Dauda emphasized the critical role of the legal profession in addressing the socio-economic and political challenges facing Nigeria. He called on the NBA Surulere branch to champion democratic principles, the rule of law, judicial independence, and social justice.
“As legal practitioners, we must be at the forefront of the fight to right the wrongs in our country. We must strive to institutionalize and entrench these fundamental principles for the betterment of our people”, he stated.
The inaugural Bar Dinner was attended by esteemed legal practitioners, judges, and other dignitaries. The event provided an opportunity for networking, camaraderie, and the exchange of ideas.