The Nigerian Bar Association’s 66th Annual General Conference has officially commenced in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, with a solemn Jumma’at prayer at the Central Mosque, No. 203 Niger Street.
The spiritual gathering marked the formal opening of the Conference, themed “Beyond Limits ’26,” and brought together senior members of the legal profession, NBA officials, members of the Conference Planning Committee and delegates from across Nigeria.
The Chairman of the AGC 2026 Planning Committee, Abdul Mohammed, SAN, attended the prayer alongside the President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, and other distinguished members of the Bar.
Also present were Mustapha Shuaibu Agbarere, SAN; Musa Attah, SAN; Sammie Somiari, SAN; Dr. Mobolaji Ojibara, General Secretary of the NBA; Afam Okeke, General Secretary-Elect; Isah Aliyu, Past Chairman of the NBA Gwagwalada Branch; Chief Emeka J.P. Obegolu, SAN; and Etaba Agbor, National Young Lawyers Forum Secretary, among others.
Imam Urges Lawyers to Live Purposefully
The Jumma’at service provided an opportunity for reflection on the values that should guide individuals, professionals and institutions in their service to humanity.
During the sermon, the Imam emphasised the importance of living a worthy and purposeful life.
He urged worshippers and members of the Bar to avoid unhealthy lifestyles and conduct themselves in accordance with the teachings and values of the Holy Book.
The message aligned with the spirit of Beyond Limits ’26, which calls on members of the legal profession to look beyond professional achievements and embrace the broader responsibilities that accompany knowledge, leadership and influence.
The sermon highlighted honesty, accountability, compassion, respect for human dignity and a commitment to doing what is right, even when no one is watching.
It also reinforced the importance of justice, fairness, humility, discipline and responsibility—values that are central to both faith and the legal profession.
Lawyers Urged to Uphold Character and Service
The spiritual opening served as a reminder that lawyers occupy influential positions in society and are entrusted with protecting rights, promoting justice and advancing the rule of law.
Members of the Bar were encouraged to ensure that professional success is accompanied by sound character and a genuine commitment to the public good.
The Imam further stressed the need to care for one’s health, avoid destructive habits, maintain peaceful relationships, respect others and contribute positively to society.
Imam Seeks Support for Mosque Project
The Imam congratulated the Nigerian Bar Association on the commencement of its Annual General Conference and welcomed delegates to Port Harcourt.
He also appealed to members of the Bar to support the development and building project of the mosque.
The appeal underscored the importance of community responsibility and collective support for institutions and initiatives that promote faith, education, welfare, peace and human development.
Abdul Mohammed, SAN, Appreciates Worshippers
Speaking after the prayer, the Chairman of the AGC 2026 Planning Committee, Abdul Mohammed, SAN, thanked the Imam, mosque leadership and worshippers for warmly receiving members of the Nigerian Bar Association.
He acknowledged the presence of the NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, as well as senior lawyers, officials and delegates who participated in the spiritual commencement of the Conference.
Abdul Mohammed, SAN, described the prayer as a significant and unifying way to begin the 66th Annual General Conference.
Beyond Professional Limits
The commencement of AGC 2026 at the mosque reinforced the message that going beyond limits extends beyond professional accomplishments.
It calls on lawyers to go beyond self-interest, indifference, titles and recognition by actively contributing to the advancement of society.
The theme advocates a legal profession that is intellectually strong, ethical, compassionate, socially responsible and firmly committed to justice.
As lawyers from across the country gather in Port Harcourt, the Jumma’at prayer has set a reflective tone for the Conference.
It reminded members that true distinction is measured not only by professional accomplishments, but also by the lives they touch, the values they uphold and the positive difference they make in society.
With the Jumma’at prayer, NBA AGC 2026 has officially begun, carrying a renewed call for lawyers to challenge limitations, embrace possibilities and serve humanity with greater purpose.
READ MORE:
NBA Digital Welfare Portal Goes Live
Latest Nigerian Bar Association News
