Chief Emeka Obegolu, SAN, Delivers Stirring Keynote At NBA-YLF New Wigs Induction Ceremony 2025

In a keynote address that resonated with inspiration, wisdom, and purpose, Chief Emeka Obegolu, SAN, Chairman of the NBA Annual General Conference Planning Committee 2025 and Chair of the NBA Remuneration Committee, delivered a powerful speech at the NBA-YLF New Wigs Induction Ceremony 2025, held under the theme, “New Voices, New Perspectives – Building Foundations for a Stronger Bar.”

The keynote address began with due protocols, as Chief Obegolu acknowledged the gravity and honour of the moment. He noted that the induction was more than a ceremony—it marked a moment of reckoning, reflection, and renewed responsibility for the newly called lawyers.

He emphasized the relevance of the theme, stating that “New Voices” signified not just youthful enthusiasm but courageous ideas and bold innovation in the legal system. “New Perspectives,” he explained, were shaped by globalization, technology, and the pursuit of justice—essential elements for the Bar’s renewal.

He reminded the inductees that building a stronger Bar requires character, discipline, and integrity—not just from seniors, but from every legal practitioner.

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Chief Obegolu then delivered nine major reflections underpinned by practical and philosophical advice for thriving in the legal profession:

a. Legal Education: The Beginning, Not the End
He reminded the new wigs that their education must not stop at law school. Citing Rule 11 of the RPC and the NBA’s Mandatory Continuing Professional Development (MCPD) Rules 2025, he stressed the need for lifelong learning and quoted NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, who reassured that “the ICLE system is designed to empower the legal profession, not create hardship.”

b. Tutelage/Pupilage: Submit to Learning
He urged new lawyers to value apprenticeship, learning legal nuances through mentorship and silent preparation. Citing Mrs. Badejo Okunsanya, he acknowledged the importance of paying young lawyers a living wage during pupillage.

c. Mentorship: Guidance Beyond Books
He spoke on the profound impact of mentorship and the need to humbly seek guidance. Quoting Paul Usoro, SAN, he drew a distinction between pupillage and mentorship and urged new wigs to make use of NBA-YLF platforms.

d. Specialization: Find Your Niche and Excel
Chief Obegolu encouraged young lawyers to specialize over time, become experts in their chosen fields, and excel with distinction rather than spreading themselves too thin.

e. Ethics: The Soul of the Profession
He emphasized the vital importance of ethics and the Rules of Professional Conduct, urging lawyers to maintain integrity. He stressed that undercutting the minimum scale of charges was unethical and cited Yakubu Maikyau, SAN, who underscored that ethics command public respect.

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f. Leadership: Start Where You Are
Leadership, he said, starts with attitude, not titles. He encouraged participation in the NBA-YLF, volunteering, and contributing to the Bar with humility and purpose, quoting Ralph Nader: “The function of leadership is to produce more leaders, not more followers.”

g. Networking: Your Network is a Lifeline
He advised the new wigs to leverage networking opportunities and informed them that the 2025 NBA Annual General Conference had subsidized packages for them. Quoting Olisa Agbakoba, SAN, he highlighted the power of authentic relationships for growth.

h. Loyalty to the Bar: Uphold Our Collective Identity
Chief Obegolu reminded them of the legal and moral obligation to the Nigerian Bar Association, citing CHINWO V. OWHONDA, and called for responsible engagement that strengthens the Bar.

i. Work-Life Balance: Sustain Your Flame
He stressed that success means little without health and peace of mind. Citing Anne Lamott, he reminded them to unplug, rest, and reconnect with themselves.

Chief Obegolu declared that the new wigs were now “new voices of the Bar” and urged them to rise with strength and purpose. He quoted Malcolm X: “The future belongs to those who prepare for it today.”

In a moment of introspection, he reflected on the question posed by Past President Okey Wali, SAN about whether Bar leaders were discharging their duties and encouraged the new generation to ponder the direction of the legal profession.

Closing with powerful words from Past President Augustine Alegeh, SAN, he charged the new lawyers to embrace hard work and dedication as the true path to professional elevation, including attaining the rank of SAN.