There’s hardly any doubt that the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), is making waves with his bold stance against impunity and commitment to justice.
I am very privileged to be a chairman of a branch under the leadership of Mazi Afam Osigwe SAN as the President of the association.
His achievements inspired me a lot and I wish to share it with members of the legal community.
Fighting Judicial Corruption:
Afam Osigwe has advocated for radical reforms like merit-based judicial appointments automated case assignments, and financial autonomy for the judiciary to tackle corruption.
Defending the Rule of Law:
He has resisted unconstitutional removals of elected officials, defended judicial independence, and condemned security agencies’ abuse of citizens right by appointing a high powered committee under the leadership of Nuhu Egya Esq , the immediate past Chairman of NBA Keffi branch who is always alive to his responsibilities in ensuring that the right of the citizens are not trampled upon with impunity.
The committee has secured the release of many Nigerians from various detention facilities across the country.
NBA Digital Initiatives:
Osigwe launched digital initiatives like the Digital Annual Practice License, NBA NEC Portal and Letter of Good Standing to enhance transparency and accessibility.
-Anti-Corruption Efforts:
He has established Branch-Level Anti-Corruption Committees across 130 NBA branches, collaborating with anti-corruption agencies and civil society.
Security and Support:
Osigwe has pushed for improved court infrastructure and security to enhance justice delivery.
NBA-NHIS GIFSHIP and Life Assurance Scheme:
These welfare packages are available to all lawyers practicing in the country.
- Fair Remuneration: He has advocated for fair compensation and minimum professional standards for junior practitioners through the Legal Practitioners Remuneration Order, 2023. He appointed a committee under the able leadership of Chief Emeka Obegolu, SAN and has been up and doing to enforce compliance across the country.
- Free Digital Seal: Young lawyers (1-7 years post-call) who paid their 2026 Bar Practising Fee can get the Digital Stamp and Seal for free.
The AML (Anti-Money Laundering) Committee.
This committee under the leadership of Chief Ernest Ojukwo SAN focuses on combating money laundering and terrorist financing.
Afam Osigwe’s administration has been working on strengthening the NBA’s AML/CFT framework, including:
a)Compliance Support: Providing guidance and support to lawyers on AML/CFT regulations.
b)Training and Capacity Building: Organizing training sessions for lawyers on AML/CFT compliance.
c)Collaboration with Authorities: Working with agencies like EFCC and SCUML to combat money laundering and terrorist financing.
Mazi Afam Osigwe has written his name in gold within the legal community and history will always remember him.
Haruna Favour Esq.
