Asaba, Delta State—The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Asaba Branch held a grand dinner and award night on September 28, 2024, marking the end of Precious Nwadimuya’s tenure as Chairman. The event, held at Orchid Hotel, Asaba, brought together members, stakeholders, and dignitaries, including the Presiding Justice of the Court of Appeal, Asaba Division, Hon. Justice Bolaji-Yusuf, who was the Chairman of the event.
Presenting his farewell speech at the event, Mr Nwadimuya reflected on his administration’s achievements, highlighting significant growth and development in the branch within the two years he held sway as the Chairman of the Branch. Some key achievements, as highlighted by him, are:
Membership Growth
Under Nwadimuya’s leadership, the branch witnessed a remarkable number increase and commitment to membership financial obligations. Out of the over 1000 branch members, the number of lawyers paying Bar Practising Fees rose from 775 in 2022 to 869 in 2024, while those paying local branch dues grew from 303 to 688.
Continuing Legal Education
The branch organized several continuing legal education programs, including NBA Asaba Law Week 2023, which focused on technology and the future of legal practice in Delta State. The 100 Years of Justice Chukwunweike Idigbe Public Lecture was also held to celebrate a renowned jurist. During its two-year tenure, the branch also held a few Byte-Size Seminars/Webinars.
Welfare Initiatives
Nwadimuya’s administration developed and implemented a Welfare Policy/Scheme, providing support to bereaved and vulnerable members. This included registering 20 female lawyers under the Nigerian Health Insurance Scheme.
Infrastructure Development
The branch upgraded its facilities, including installing solar streetlights, a 24-hour power supply line, and air conditioning in the meeting hall. The Justice Chike Idigbe E-Library and Resource Centre, which boasts 10 modern desktop computers and other facilities and electronic resources, was also established.
Advocacy and Public Interest
The branch undertook pro bono cases and intervened in cases involving law enforcement agencies. Nwadimuya also emphasized the importance of collaboration with stakeholders such as the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), the CLEEN Foundation, and Law Enforcement Agencies such as the Police, the EFCC, Federal Road Safety and the Civil Defence Corp in the interest of its members.
Implementation of Remuneration Protocol
The branch recorded significant progress in implementing the Legal Practitioners Remuneration Order, 2023, using the Protocol it adopted with a commencement date of April 1, 2024. Since then,
- Lawyers in compliance with the protocol prepared 28 land documents.
- Total value of the documents: N111,700,000.00
- Total 10% earned by lawyers as fees: N14,300,000.00
- Total 2% earned by the branch: N222,400.00
Appointments and Elevations
Several members were appointed to NBA national committees, judiciary positions, and political posts, including Ekemejero Ohwovoriole SAN as Delta State’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice and Precious Nwadimuya’s recent election as a member of the General Council of the Bar.
Challenges and Recommendations
Nwadimuya acknowledged challenges, including member apathy towards their non-financial obligations, and urged his successor to sustain momentum, innovate, and prioritize member engagement.
As Nwadimuya hands over the reins, he thanked members, stakeholders, and his executive committee for their support. His tenure has positioned the branch for continued growth and relevance.
The new executives were inaugurated, ushering in a fresh leadership chapter for the NBA Asaba Branch. The event acknowledged the contributions of outgoing executives and honoured other outstanding members of the Branch.
The event, which was held on the administration’s last day in office, was organised by the Precious Nwadimuya-led Executive to host its members, friends, and stakeholders to a dinner event as an appreciation and to celebrate each and everyone who contributed immensely to ensuring that the administration succeeded in the two-year journey.
Attendees were treated to a sumptuous 3-course dinner, captivating entertainment, and unparalleled networking opportunities. The venue’s elegant décor and warm ambience provided the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable night of camaraderie and celebration.
In a statement, Mrs Juliet Ojefia, the Chairman of the Planning Committee, expressed her gratitude to members and stakeholders for their support. “This grand dinner and inauguration ceremony represents a defining moment for our branch, as we honour the past while embracing the future.
The NBA Asaba Branch remains committed to upholding the highest standards of justice, integrity, and professionalism. We look forward to continued growth and progress under the leadership of our newly inaugurated Executive Committee.”
Prominent figures in the legal community, including senior advocates, judges, and past branch chairmen, attended the event.
