President Bola Ahmed Tinubu urged Nigerian lawyers and citizens to work together with his administration towards building the Nigeria of everyone’s dreams.
He emphasized the need to move away from the past and strive for sustainable development.
Speaking at the Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in Lagos, the President, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, acknowledged the association’s history of championing democratic ideals and promoting the rule of law.
The administration reassured Nigerians of its commitment to promoting the rule of law, adhering to the principles of separation of powers, and tolerating dissent within the boundaries of the law.
The President acknowledged that making difficult decisions would bring about positive changes soon.
He also expressed gratitude to the Supreme Court for upholding good governance and democracy in Nigeria, particularly citing a recent verdict that granted financial autonomy to local government councils, which is expected to stimulate development at the grassroots level.
President Tinubu commended the NBA for choosing the theme “Pressing Forward: A National Posture for Rebuilding Nigeria” for this year’s conference.
He also praised the Association for its role in initiating and driving reforms to foster economic growth and development.
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In a keynote address, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), emphasized the need for accelerated growth and development in Nigeria.
She stressed the importance of macroeconomic reforms, diversifying exports, and achieving policy consistency to minimize volatility.
She highlighted the need for a social contract to achieve growth, emphasizing the security of lives and national assets.
Dr. Okonjo-Iweala also emphasized the role of organizations like the NBA in achieving a social contract and tolerating different political parties and past administrations.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State underscored the importance of the social contract in ensuring the security of lives and property.
He also emphasized the judiciary’s role in strengthening the nation’s electoral process.
The President of the NBA, Mr Yakubu Maikyau (SAN), affirmed the bar’s commitment to working for justice in Nigeria and urged lawyers to discharge their duties with determination and integrity, avoiding corruption at all levels.
The event also included the launch of a book titled “History of the Nigerian Bar Association” written by Olanrewaju Akinsola.
Dignitaries present at the event included Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang; former President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama; Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN); President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem; the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (the Ọjájá II), and representatives of the Senate President and Speaker of the House of Representatives.
