Sir Agabaidu C. Jideani, an elder of the Garki Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and a former Director General and CEO of the Ethics and Corporate Compliance Institute of Nigeria, has called for the revitalization of Mandatory Continuing Legal Education (MCLE) as a vital tool for ensuring lawyer competence and boosting public trust in the legal profession.

In an interview with Mrs. Olayemi John, Sir Jideani stated, “Mandatory Continuing Legal Education (MCLE) is one of the most useful regulatory measures that ensure continuing lawyer competence and improved trust in the profession by society.” He further stressed the importance of a continuous professional development system that equips legal practitioners with the knowledge, skills, and integrity needed to meet societal expectations.

According to Sir Jideani, CLE is an ongoing development program that ensures lawyers remain current and proficient in their practice areas. He noted that the NBA’s CLE program is crucial for safeguarding public trust and protecting society from incompetent representation.

Tracing the origins of CLE, Sir Jideani highlighted its global adoption in the 1970s and 1980s, with Nigeria institutionalizing its MCLE rules during the NBA NEC meeting in Owerri, Imo State, in 2007. He explained that while the current CLE model emphasizes attendance, there is a need to prioritize active learning and practical engagement through case studies, simulations, and peer assessments.

Sir Jideani also underscored the role of technology in modernizing CLE delivery. He advocated for technology-driven, flexible learning systems that allow legal practitioners to access courses at their convenience, making CLE more engaging and impactful.

“The CLE scheme benefits not just individual practitioners but also society at large,” Sir Jideani remarked. He suggested that some CLE courses, such as litigation management, anti-corruption practices, and improved service delivery, should be made mandatory to address specific societal needs.

Sir Jideani concluded by emphasizing the need for continuous evaluation of CLE outcomes, with effectiveness measured by improved lawyer competence, client satisfaction, and enhanced public confidence in the legal profession.

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