Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN, delivered a keynote address at the Nigerian Law Society‘s 2024 Annual Conference, emphasizing the importance of legal education in shaping Nigeria’s future.
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He highlighted the need for continuous professional development and adherence to ethical standards among legal practitioners. Gadzama also discussed the challenges facing the legal profession, including technological advancements and globalization, urging lawyers to adapt and uphold the rule of law in an evolving landscape. His address was well-received, inspiring attendees to commit to excellence and integrity in their practice.
In his address titled “The Role of the Nigerian Law Society (NLS) to the Nigerian Society,” Gadzama emphasized the critical role played by the NLS in shaping the legal landscape and contributing to the advancement of the nation. He highlighted the NLS’s commitment to promoting justice, upholding the rule of law, and safeguarding human rights since its establishment in 2023.
Gadzama structured his address under several key headings, including an overview of the establishment and growth of the NLS, the uniqueness and importance of the organization, and its impact on Nigerian society. He delved into the various ways in which the NLS contributes to the betterment of the nation, such as promoting the standards of the legal profession, enhancing the administration of justice and access to justice, advocating for human rights, facilitating good governance and respect for the rule of law, and promoting the welfare of legal practitioners.
The keynote speaker acknowledged the challenges faced by the NLS, particularly the opposition from the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) regarding its formation and continued existence. However, he cited the support of eminent legal figures, such as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the NBA and the Chairman of the Body of Benchers of Nigeria, who have recognized the constitutional right of the NLS to exist and function independently.
Gadzama emphasized that the NLS is not in competition with the NBA but rather complements its efforts in advancing the legal profession in Nigeria. He called for unity and collaboration between the two organizations, drawing parallels to other jurisdictions where legal practitioners have the freedom to belong to multiple law-related associations.
The NLS’s Policy Agenda was also discussed in detail, covering various aspects such as access to justice, advancing the profession, criminal law and national security, human rights, international law, and regulation of the profession and ethics. Gadzama highlighted the NLS’s initiatives and activities in each of these areas, demonstrating the organization’s commitment to promoting excellence, professionalism, and the rule of law in Nigeria.
Gadzama concluded his address by quoting Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Janet Reno, emphasizing the importance of legal professionals performing their duties with dedication and giving back to their communities. He reaffirmed the NLS’s commitment to the advancement of Nigerian society and its role as an indispensable asset to the nation.
The 2nd Nigerian Law Society 2024 Annual General Conference served as a platform for legal luminaries to discuss the critical issues facing the legal profession and chart a course for its future development. Gadzama’s comprehensive and insightful keynote address provided valuable guidance and a call to action for legal professionals to unite and dedicate themselves to the betterment of Nigerian society through the instrumentality of law.
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