The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has advised newly called lawyers to exercise caution in the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in legal practice, warning that over-dependence on such technologies could undermine the ethics and integrity of the profession.
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The caution was issued by Rabiu Garba, Chairman of the NBA Bauchi Branch, during an orientation programme held Tuesday in Bauchi for newly inducted lawyers.
Garba acknowledged the convenience AI offers but emphasised that it cannot substitute for critical legal reasoning, nor should it replace Nigeria’s rich jurisprudential framework.
“Even advanced countries are trying to do away with AI in legal practice. AI is not always reliable; most times, what it provides is not applicable in legal contexts,” he said. “We encourage lawyers to rely on our rich jurisprudence and legal resources instead.”
He added that the orientation programme was designed to introduce young lawyers to the realities of legal practice and prepare them for professional growth.
The NBA chair also reiterated the association’s commitment to sustaining such capacity-building initiatives to enhance members’ competence and professional development.
Speaking at the event, Lawal Hussein, a former branch chairman, shared his personal experience with AI-generated content, warning the new lawyers about the risks.
“AI can help, but be careful. Some lawyers have been punished for citing fake AI-generated cases. I once nearly faced serious embarrassment due to misleading information provided by AI,” he said.
Similarly, another legal practitioner, Ibrahim Danjuma, stressed the importance of continuing legal education, noting that staying informed and updated is essential for competence and relevance in today’s evolving legal landscape.
Justice Muhyiddeen of the Bauchi State Sharia Court of Appeal and Ibrahim Umar, a former Attorney General of Bauchi State, also addressed the gathering. They urged the new lawyers to approach their careers with seriousness, humility, and a commitment to lifelong learning, while actively seeking mentorship from experienced practitioners.
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