The Nigerian Bar Association Women Forum (NBAWF), under the leadership of Chairperson Huwaila Mohammed Mohammed, successfully held its first 2024 Summit, themed “Breaking Barriers: Empowering Female Lawyers,” on November 15, 2024.
The landmark event, organised by the NBA Bwari Branch Women Forum, took place at the Gardis Event Centre and brought together female legal professionals from various sectors—academia, private practice, and public service—to address pressing challenges and propose solutions for inclusivity and gender parity within the legal profession.
Event Highlights
The summit attracted a wide array of female lawyers, thought leaders, and aspiring professionals. It featured thought-provoking keynote addresses and engaging panel discussions led by prominent figures in the legal field. Hon. Justice E.A. Anenih, represented by Hon. Justice F.E. Mesiri, delivered the keynote address, setting an inspiring tone for the event.
Distinguished speakers included:
- Huwaila Mohammed Mohammed, NBAWF Chairperson
- Chief Emeka J.P. Obegolu, SAN, Chairman of NBA-AGC 2025 and President of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce
- Adelayo L. Oriekun
- Oyinkan Badejo Okusanya
- Your Worship Chienena Nonye-Okoronkwo
- Dr. Abdul Oyedokun
- Queenster Ogbu
- Dr. Adaeze Anumba Okoro
Dignitaries present included Aare Olumuyiwa Akinboro, SAN, Chief Paul Harris Ogbole, SAN (represented), Jonathan Taidi, SAN, Chukwuemeka Clement, immediate past Second Vice President of the NBA, Mazi Afam Okeke, and numerous other notable legal professionals.
NBA WOMEN FORUM (@nbawomenforum)
In his remarks, Mr. Paul Daudu, SAN, Chairman of NBA Bwari Branch, underscored the importance of creating environments that enable female legal practitioners to excel. Facilitator Ayisire Bukola called on women in the profession to support each other, highlighting the significance of addressing the unique challenges faced by female lawyers.
Key Discussions
The summit featured panel discussions that tackled critical topics such as:
- Overcoming Barriers: Strategies to confront and mitigate challenges impeding women’s progression in law.
- Inclusivity in Practice: Policies and best practices for fostering inclusive workplace cultures.
- Leadership and Mentorship: The essential role of mentorship in shaping the careers of young female lawyers.
- Work-Life Balance: Innovative solutions for managing professional and personal responsibilities.
Resolutions and Achievements
The summit concluded with impactful resolutions aimed at advancing gender equity:
- Establishing mentorship programs for young female lawyers.
- Advocating for gender equity policies within legal institutions.
- Building a collaborative network for ongoing support among female legal professionals.
Notable Quotes
“It’s not just about empowering women but ensuring that the legal profession benefits from the talents and contributions of all its members equally,” – Hon. Justice E.A. Anenih.
“One of the most transformative ways to support female lawyers is to adopt policies that allow for a better work-life balance. Flexible work hours, remote work options, and childcare support are essential for attracting and retaining talented women in law,” added Hon. Justice E.A. Anenih.
Acknowledgements
Hadiza Afegbua, the NBAWF-FCT State Lead, expressed profound gratitude to all sponsors, partners, and attendees for their unwavering support. Special appreciation was extended to Chief Emeka J.P. Obegolu, SAN, for his significant contributions as a panelist and for his leadership within the legal community.
Looking Forward
Building on the momentum of this successful summit, the NBA Bwari Women Forum plans to implement the resolutions adopted and organise follow-up events to continue advocating for gender equity and inclusivity. The forum calls on all stakeholders in the legal profession to support this mission and foster an environment where female lawyers can thrive.
The inaugural NBA Bwari Women Forum Summit marked not only a significant milestone but also laid the foundation for ongoing dialogue, collaboration, and action towards an equitable legal profession.
Ayisire Bukola Facilitator, NBAWF Bwari Branch
Signed:
Hadiza Afegbua, NBAWF-FCT Abuja State Lead.
