2024 NBA-AGC: Legal Luminaries Chart Course for Nigeria’s Rebirth

Nigerian legal community recently gathered in Lagos for the 2024 Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA-AGC), where over 13,000 lawyers came together to set an agenda for the nation’s rebirth. The six-day event, themed “Pressing Forward: A National Posture for Rebuilding Nigeria,” featured a wide array of activities, culminating in the inauguration of Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, as the 32nd President of the NBA. The conference brought together influential figures, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, former Ghanaian President John Mahama, and Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO) Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, who delivered a keynote address emphasizing the need for a new social contract in Nigeria.

Opening Ceremony Highlights: A Call for a New Social Contract

The opening ceremony, held at the Eko Hotel Exhibition Centre, was marked by a keynote address from Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, who underscored the importance of establishing a social contract to guide Nigeria’s economic and social policies. In her speech titled “A New Social Contract for Nigeria’s Future,” Dr. Okonjo-Iweala argued that Nigeria’s economic growth has been inconsistent due to a lack of policy continuity across different administrations. She called for a cross-party, cross-society agreement on key economic and social policies, which should be enshrined in law or even in the Constitution to ensure stability and progress.

Dr. Okonjo-Iweala cited examples from countries like Peru and India to illustrate the benefits of such a contract. She stressed that Nigeria’s political actors must prioritize security, both in terms of safeguarding lives and protecting national assets, to foster economic and social development. She also highlighted the need for transparency in government spending and adherence to fiscal rules, including maintaining a debt-to-GDP ratio below 40% and limiting debt service to revenue to avoid crowding out essential expenditures.

Government’s Commitment to Addressing Challenges

Representing President Bola Tinubu at the event, Vice President Kashim Shettima reaffirmed the government’s commitment to tackling Nigeria’s economic and social challenges. He responded positively to Dr. Okonjo-Iweala’s call for a social contract, acknowledging the need for consistent and sound economic policies. Shettima pointed out that recent government actions, such as ending the multiple exchange rate regime, have already begun addressing corruption and economic inefficiencies.

He assured attendees that the government would continue prioritizing the welfare of the judiciary, recognizing its critical role in maintaining social order and fostering economic development. Shettima also praised the Supreme Court’s decision to grant financial autonomy to local governments, a move expected to spur grassroots development.

Restoring the Judiciary’s Integrity

The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, used the platform to discuss ongoing reforms aimed at restoring the integrity of Nigeria’s judiciary. Speaking during a breakout session, Prince Fagbemi highlighted the National Justice Roadmap, which is being developed in collaboration with various judicial stakeholders. The reforms include engaging with foreign governments to recover stolen assets, speeding up the prosecution of corrupt individuals, and improving the administration of criminal justice.

Prince Fagbemi also mentioned efforts to digitalize the Ministry of Justice, making it more efficient and transparent. This digital transformation will involve using technology to streamline legal processes, including the transportation of inmates and litigants to court through virtual means.

Political Stakeholders Emphasize Legal Reforms for Africa’s Future

Former Ghanaian President John Mahama also addressed the conference, urging African legal professionals to take a more active role in shaping the continent’s future. He called for legal reforms, economic diversification, and a commitment to good governance as essential steps for Africa’s development. Mahama stressed that the legal community has a significant role to play in advocating for policies that promote growth, stability, and justice across the continent.

 Path Forward for Nigeria

The 2024 NBA-AGC was a pivotal event that set the stage for critical discussions on Nigeria’s future. The conference highlighted the urgent need for a new social contract, consistent economic policies, and robust judicial reforms. As Nigeria presses forward, the legal community’s role in driving these changes will be crucial in achieving the nation’s long-desired progress and stability.