As Chief Nunghe SAN Leads Delegation Including Chief Gadzama, SAN, Prof. Gidado To Body of Benchers Chairman
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The Nigerian Law Society [NLS], led a high-profile delegation to the Chairman of the Body of Benchers, the Honourable Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, GCON, former Chief Justice of Nigeria, on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, in a move aimed at fostering unity and excellence within the Nigerian legal profession.
The visit, held in a warm and engaging atmosphere, underscored the NLS’s dedication to fostering unity and excellence within Nigeria’s legal fraternity. Leading the delegation was Chief Mela Nunghe, SAN, Bencher, and President of the NLS. Accompanying him were key figures, including Dr. Lilian Uche, National Publicity Secretary; Alice O. Awonugba, National Assistant General Secretary; Mr. Steve T. Abar, former General Secretary; Professor Maxwell Gidado, OON, SAN; Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, OFR, MFR, SAN, Life Bencher; and Mr. Paul Eshiomomoh. The group also included executives from the NLS Abuja Chapter, such as Mr. Jephath J. Tukura, Chairman, and Mr. Michael Ayuba, Publicity Secretary, along with other prominent members.
In his address, Chief Nunghe highlighted the core objectives of the NLS, reaffirming the society’s unwavering commitment to upholding the Rule of Law, promoting professional excellence, and advocating for the rights and welfare of legal practitioners across Nigeria. He provided a forthright overview of the challenges the nascent organization has encountered since its establishment, including subtle opposition from various stakeholders. Notably, he referenced an ongoing legal matter currently before the Court of Appeal, which represents a significant hurdle for the society’s growth.
The Honourable Justice Ariwoola, in his response, expressed genuine surprise at the resistance faced by the NLS, questioning its foundations. Drawing from his extensive experience in the legal profession, he advocated for a pluralistic approach to legal associations, noting that such diversity is a hallmark of thriving democracies. “A pluralistic bar can be a positive feature of a vibrant democracy and can contribute to professional growth,” he stated, offering his full encouragement to the NLS’s endeavors.
Grateful for the Chairman’s insights and support, Chief Nunghe extended heartfelt thanks on behalf of the delegation. He reiterated the NLS’s resolve to maintain the highest standards of professionalism and ethical practice in the pursuit of its mission.
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The meeting comes at a pivotal time for the NLS, as it navigates its path amid Nigeria’s evolving legal landscape. Proponents of multiple legal associations point to global precedents in advanced democracies like the United States, the United Kingdom, Sierra Leone, Liberia, and South Africa. In these jurisdictions, diverse bar organizations foster a dynamic and specialized legal ecosystem, preventing any single entity from monopolizing the profession’s voice. This model mirrors the Nigerian accounting sector, where the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN) coexist productively, enhancing overall professional standards through complementary roles.
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