I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Tewodros Getachew TULU, President of the Ethiopian Federal Advocates Association, on his well-deserved election as President of the Pan African Lawyers Union (PALU).
Mr. Tewodros is a seasoned legal practitioner and a respected institutional leader with a track record of service to the Ethiopian Bar and the African legal community.
His election is a testament to his visionary leadership, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the strengthening of the rule of law and access to justice across Africa.
In the same vein, I offer special congratulations to Mrs. Joyce Oduah, FICMC, former General Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), on her historic election as Secretary General of PALU.

A formidable lawyer, institutional reformer, and advocate of good governance, Joyce Oduah has consistently championed transparency and inclusion within the legal profession.
Her emergence into this pivotal continental role is a source of pride for Nigeria and a symbol of the rising influence of African women in legal leadership.
As you both take on these global responsibilities, I urge you to see yourselves not only as leaders of the African legal profession but also as stewards of the continent’s hope for justice and reform. Let your voices rise boldly for the oppressed, and let your leadership inspire younger generations of African lawyers to embrace excellence and integrity.
“True leadership is not in command, but in conviction and compassion.”
“The legal profession is the soul of any just society—its guardians must be both fearless and visionary.”
May the Almighty grant you strength, wisdom, and grace as you discharge your mandates. May PALU, under your stewardship, grow in influence and continue to shape policies that uphold human rights, good governance, and pan-African integration through the law.

Wishing you a fruitful and impactful tenure.
Yours faithfully,
Chief Emeka JP Obegolu, SAN
Former President of the Pan African Lawyers Union (PALU)
Former General Secretary, Nigerian Bar Association
About Chief Emeka JP Obegolu, SAN
Chief Emeka JP Obegolu, SAN, is a distinguished Senior Advocate of Nigeria, accomplished mediator, and past President of the Pan African Lawyers Union. He is also a former General Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association.
A widely respected leader in both business and legal circles, he currently serves as President of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce, Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association 2025 Annual General Conference Planning Committee 2025, and the current Chairman of Nigerian Bar Association Remuneration Committee
His enduring legacy in promoting arbitration, mediation, and justice sector reforms continues to shape the legal landscape across Africa.