By Damiete Braide, Lagos
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has inaugurated a new branch in Surulere, Lagos, marking a significant milestone in the association’s expansion efforts.
The inaugural ceremony saw the election of Mr Anene Nwadukwe as the pioneer chairman, alongside a new team of executives tasked with steering the branch to success.
The new executives, who will serve a two-year term, include Henry Obinna Ezeanyim as Vice Chairman, Enomma Umoren Mbanugo as Secretary, Rageeba Oloko as Assistant Secretary, Maureen Ogochukwu Umejiego as Treasurer, Salami Tajudeen Agbaje as Financial Secretary, Felicia Chikere Nosike as Welfare Secretary, Okuwobi Olusola Mayowa as Publicity Secretary, and Florence Ekwutosi Chijioke Duru as Social Secretary. Kingsley Etim Ebimor will serve as Provost.
The election took place at the Secretariat located at No. 14, Babatunde Street, off Ogunlana Drive, Surulere, and was overseen by the Caretaker Committee, led by Adeleke Agbola, SAN, who handed over leadership to the newly elected executives.
In his acceptance speech, Mr Nwadukwe expressed profound gratitude to the members for their unity and participation in the peaceful electoral process. He acknowledged the meticulous efforts of the Caretaker Committee in conducting the election and extended appreciation to his fellow contestants, affirming that their collective efforts signify that everyone involved is a winner.
Read also: NBA Nigeria hosts first Jn. NBA/WNBA Elite Camp
“The formation of the Surulere branch is a remarkable event for me,” Nwadukwe stated. “As the pioneer chairman, I recognise the enormous responsibilities that lie ahead. With the Lagos and Ikeja branches being the foremost in the country, the expectations for Surulere are understandably high. We are tasked with ensuring that our performance does not fall below the standards set by the Lagos branch. We must be innovative in our approach, striving to perform above expectations, and demonstrating our capabilities to those who may still be undecided about joining us.”
Nwadukwe outlined his vision for the Surulere branch, emphasising a strong focus on mentorship programmes for young lawyers. “My dream as chairman is to ensure that within the next two years, young lawyers in Surulere will benefit from robust mentorship programmes that rival those offered by prominent law firms in Lagos Island and other key areas. We will provide training that equips them with valuable experience, bridging the gap between their current skills and those required in high-profile legal practices.”
In addition to mentorship, Nwadukwe highlighted plans to produce distinguished law journals with support from esteemed lawyers at the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies. He also unveiled an ambitious membership drive aiming to increase the branch’s membership to 1,000. This expansion, he explained, is vital for driving the branch’s programmes and initiatives.
“Our vision extends beyond the immediate legal community,” Nwadukwe added. “As part of our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), we aim to inspire young minds through initiatives like quiz and essay competitions for primary and secondary schools within the community. By introducing students to the legal profession at an early age, we hope to nurture future lawyers and leaders, ensuring they understand the significant role they can play in society.”
The Surulere branch’s inauguration heralds a new era for the NBA, promising to deliver innovative solutions, foster professional development, and contribute meaningfully to the legal landscape. With high expectations and ambitious plans, the branch is poised to set a standard of excellence that will attract legal professionals and inspire the community at large.