President Bola Tinubu has affirmed his commitment to upholding the rule of law, adhering to the principles of separation of powers, and respecting diverse viewpoints within Nigeria’s legal framework. He made this pledge through Vice-President Kashim Shettima during the opening of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) annual conference held in Lagos.
Since taking office, President Tinubu has highlighted his administration’s steady progress in advancing legal and judicial reforms. He praised the NBA for its historic role in advocating for democracy and the rule of law, expressing his administration’s ongoing dedication to these ideals.
Tinubu called upon Nigerian lawyers and citizens to collaborate with his government to work towards realizing a prosperous and equitable Nigeria. He assured that despite the challenging decisions required to implement necessary changes, his policies are designed to promote sustainable development and provide relief to Nigerians.
The President also expressed gratitude to the Supreme Court for its role in supporting good governance. He cited a recent landmark decision that granted financial autonomy to local government councils, a move he believes will catalyze significant development at the grassroots level.
Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to prioritizing the welfare of the judiciary, aiming to reduce unnecessary burdens on judges and accelerate the adjudication process. He emphasized the importance of a functional judiciary for maintaining social order and fostering economic development. The President encouraged the NBA to serve as a guiding force in shaping legal and governance reforms.
In her keynote address, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), highlighted the urgent need for robust economic reforms in Nigeria. She stressed the importance of diversifying the economy beyond oil and advocated for a new social contract to drive growth and tolerance across political divides.
Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu echoed the need for a social contract, emphasizing security and judicial reform as critical components. He assured that Lagos is prepared to support this initiative fully.
NBA President Yakubu Maikyau reaffirmed the bar’s dedication to justice and urged lawyers to perform their duties with integrity and to combat corruption. The conference also featured the launch of a book titled “History of the Nigerian Bar Association” by Nigerian lawyer Olanrewaju Akinsola, which explores the association’s significant role in Nigeria’s legal history.
