The Young Lawyers Forum (YLF) of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Sagbama Branch, successfully held the second edition of its Continuing Legal Education (CLE) Programme on Tuesday, 13th May 2025, focusing on a highly pertinent theme: “Legal Drafting and the Legal Practitioners Remuneration Order (LPRO) 2023.”
The session featured a distinguished guest speaker, Chief Emeka Obegolu, SAN, Chairman of the NBA National Remuneration Committee, who delivered a powerful and insightful presentation on the intersection of legal drafting and standardized remuneration for legal practitioners in Nigeria.
In his presentation, Chief Obegolu emphasized that legal drafting is the bedrock of legal practice, covering the preparation of contracts, court documents, legislation, and other legal instruments.
He stated that the quality and clarity of legal drafting not only safeguard the rights of clients but also promote the rule of law and judicial efficiency.
Turning to the Legal Practitioners Remuneration Order (LPRO) 2023, which came into effect on 16th May 2023, Chief Obegolu explained that the Order repealed the 1991 Remuneration Order and introduced a comprehensive, standardized framework for legal fees across Nigeria.
He highlighted its key objectives—ensuring fair compensation, transparency, and professionalism in legal service delivery.
Key Features of the LPRO 2023
Chief Obegolu outlined several innovations contained in the LPRO 2023, including:
- Five Scales of Charges covering consultations, incorporations, litigation, property transactions, and commercial services.
- State Band Classifications to accommodate regional cost differences.
- Mandatory Written Terms of Engagement within 14 days of instruction.
- Provisions for Pro Bono Services under certain conditions.
- Enforcement Mechanisms, including penalties for non-compliance.
He particularly noted that legal drafting activities such as conveyancing, contracts, and legal opinions must be billed professionally, with minimum fees stipulated by the LPRO to protect lawyers from exploitation and undervaluation.
Why Adequate Remuneration for Legal Drafting Matters
Chief Obegolu stressed that legal drafting is not merely clerical work but an intellectually rigorous and risk-laden professional service. He outlined six compelling reasons why legal practitioners, especially young lawyers, must insist on proper remuneration:
- Drafting is Intellectual Work – It requires training, foresight, and legal skill.
- Legal Instruments Define Rights – Poor drafting can result in disputes and losses.
- It Involves Time and Professional Risk – Lawyers must avoid ambiguous or unenforceable clauses.
- Regulatory and Ethical Compliance – Legal documents must meet high standards.
- Adds Value to Transactions – Quality drafting strengthens deals and protects interests.
- Encourages Specialization and Growth – Fair pay fosters professional excellence.
He encouraged young lawyers never to see themselves as “just juniors,” but as trained professionals entitled to fair earnings for their work.
NBA’s Enforcement and Advocacy Initiatives
As Chairman of the NBA Remuneration Committee, Chief Obegolu highlighted the committee’s nationwide efforts to promote and enforce the LPRO 2023:
- Sensitization Campaigns: Town halls, webinars, and branch engagements.
- Stakeholder Communications: Formal letters to State Attorneys General, banks, financial institutions, and local governments.
- Legislative Advocacy: Urging lawmakers to align state laws with the LPRO.
- Monitoring and Disciplinary Measures: Ensuring that undercharging is treated as unprofessional conduct.
He revealed that compliance guidelines have been distributed and monitoring mechanisms are being put in place to ensure widespread adherence to the Order.
Challenges and Recommendations
Chief Obegolu acknowledged certain challenges, including limited awareness among lawyers and difficulty adjusting existing billing practices. He recommended:
- Widespread education and workshops
- Clear monitoring systems
- Regular feedback from practitioners to enhance implementation
Conclusion
The CLE session concluded with a powerful charge to young lawyers:
“The Legal Practitioners Remuneration Order 2023 is not just a policy — it is your shield against exploitation and your platform for professionalism. Use it to assert your value.”
The NBA Sagbama YLF continues to position itself as a forward-thinking platform for empowering young lawyers through advocacy, education, and exposure to key legal reforms. The presence and insights of Chief Emeka Obegolu, SAN, at the CLE programme mark another significant milestone in that journey.
For further information on the NBA Sagbama YLF Continuing Legal Education Programme, please contact the Branch Publicity Secretary.
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