The 65th Annual General Conference (AGC) of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), with the theme “Stand Out, Stand Tall”, was held at the International Conference Centre (ICC), Enugu, Enugu State, Nigeria, from 22nd to 29th August 2025.
1. The AGC, the flagship gathering of the NBA, brought together leaders of the Bar and Bench, captains of industry, political leaders, international partners, and civil society to deliberate on the growth of the legal profession and its role in addressing Nigeria’s and Africa’s most pressing challenges.
1. The Conference commenced with Jumat Prayers on Friday, 22nd August 2025, a Health Walk and the NEC Meeting on Saturday, 23rd August 2025, followed by a Church Service and the Opening Ceremony on Sunday, 24th August 2025.
1. The Opening Ceremony was chaired by His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, CFR, the Sultan of Sokoto, who, in his remarks, underscored the centrality of law as the foundation of societal order, justice, and peace. He called on lawyers to champion reforms in law, social justice, and access to justice for the vulnerable, noting that justice remains the bedrock of governance and peace.

In his Keynote Address, Hon. Julius Malema, MP, South African legislator and leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), set the tone for the Conference with a stirring call for African lawyers to decolonize legal systems, dismantle oppressive structures, and build frameworks rooted in African cultural identity, dignity, and pride. He challenged the African Bar to reject being mere enforcers of outdated colonial laws, and instead become innovators who drive transformation in justice, governance, and economic emancipation.
1. Declaring the Conference open, the Governor of Enugu State, His Excellency Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, welcomed delegates to the state and assured them of security and hospitality. He emphasized the place of the legal profession in stabilizing democracy, strengthening institutions, and guiding national reforms. The Governor commended the NBA for choosing Enugu as the host city and pledged his government’s continued support for initiatives that advance justice and development.
1. With the foregoing, the Conference was set on a course of deep reflection, bold dialogue, and practical resolutions for Nigeria, Africa, and the global legal community.

2.0 KEY RESOLUTIONS

2.1 Rule of Law & Governance

The NBA reaffirmed its commitment to upholding constitutional democracy, due process, and judicial independence.
1. The NBA Called for urgent review of outdated laws and reforms to reflect current realities.
1. The NBA Urged restraint and accountability in the use of prosecutorial powers under Sections 174 and 211 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic f Nigeria.

The NBA Condemned systemic barriers that deny the poor and vulnerable access to justice.
Resolved to strengthen Legal Aid, ADR mechanisms, and pro bono services, particularly for women and children.
Called for improved accountability and transparency in security agencies and a stop to misuse of “national security” for political ends.

The NBA Expressed concern over Nigeria’s fragile economy, inflationary pressures, and poor sequencing of reforms.
Urged government to enforce a living minimum wage, curb reckless political spending, and ensure policies are backed by impact assessments.
Advocated regional integration and dismantling of intra-African trade barriers.

The NBA Recognized AI as a transformative tool for the legal profession, but warned against risks of inaccuracy and ethical misuse.
Resolved to develop NBA ethical guidelines on AI, and called for creation of Nigeria-specific AI legal models.
Urged continuous training and mentorship to build AI literacy among lawyers.

The NBA Resolved to enforce the NBA Remuneration Order to ensure fair pay for young lawyers.
Called for reforms in legal education to emphasize entrepreneurship, specialization, and practical skills.

models for law firms.

The NBA Advocated affirmative action policies to increase women’s participation in law, leadership, and governance.
Resolved to institutionalize structured mentorship for women in the legal profession.

final appeals limited to the Court of Appeal.

Recommended bonds for challenges to arbitral awards to curb frivolous litigation.

At the close of its 65th Annual General Conference, the Nigerian Bar Association reaffirmed its position as the foremost guardian of justice, democracy, and the rule of law in Nigeria and Africa.
- Delegates resolved that the Bar must not only regulate the profession but also shape national discourse, protect the vulnerable, and promote reforms that strengthen institutions and inspire public confidence.

The Conference emphasized that the future of Nigeria requires an independent judiciary, ethical leadership, accountable governance, and a legal profession that is innovative, inclusive, and people-focused.
- The NBA pledged to champion access to justice for all, fair economic policies, gender equity, protection of children’s rights, and responsible deployment of technology in legal practice.
- Beyond Nigeria, the NBA committed to deepening collaboration with African and international partners to dismantle barriers to trade, strengthen regional legal frameworks, and ensure that Africa’s voice is heard on the global stage.
- In this resolve, the Nigerian Bar Association stands out and stands tall not only as the conscience of the nation, but also as a beacon of integrity, innovation, and transformation for Africa and the world.

Issued this 29th day of August 2025.