The President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, delivered a rousing goodwill message at the opening ceremony of the 2025 Annual Law Week of the NBA Lagos Branch, held today.
Themed “Reimagining the Practice of Law: Ethics, Innovation and the Future of Legal Services – Let’s Be Lawyers Again,” the event marked a significant moment of reflection and renewal for the legal profession.
In his address, the NBA President commended the leadership and Planning Committee of the Lagos Branch for curating a timely and thought-provoking theme.
He noted that the theme not only mirrors the present-day realities confronting legal practice in Nigeria but also challenges lawyers to deeply reflect on the future trajectory of the profession.
“It is not enough to innovate or expand practice areas,” Osigwe said. “We must return to the core of what makes us lawyers—integrity, professionalism, and fidelity to the rule of law.”
He emphasized that amidst global disruptions, economic uncertainties, and technological advancement, lawyers must not drift from their ethical moorings.
The call to “Let’s Be Lawyers Again”, he said, is a timely and urgent reminder to uphold the Rules of Professional Conduct and adhere to the newly instituted 2025 Mandatory Continuing Professional Development (MCPD) Rules, which require all legal practitioners to earn a minimum of five CPD credit hours annually.
According to the NBA President, these requirements are not mere formalities, but essential safeguards designed to ensure continued professional excellence and to preserve public trust in the legal system.
While advocating for the responsible adoption of innovation, he urged lawyers to maintain a careful balance between technological advancement and the enduring ethical duties that define legal practice.
He warned that while the future of legal services is digital, dynamic, and client-driven, legal professionals must not lose sight of the foundational values of the profession.
“The legal profession must evolve, but in doing so, we must never become strangers to the values that built our credibility. Let us reimagine the future of law with courage—and with conscience,” he charged.
The conference attracted a cross-section of legal minds, policy leaders, scholars, and technology experts who gathered to explore new dimensions in the delivery of legal services in today’s rapidly transforming world.
In conclusion, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN congratulated the Lagos Branch for organizing what promises to be an intellectually stimulating and impactful Law Week.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the NBA national leadership to support innovation, uphold ethical standards, and promote inclusive legal reforms that empower lawyers and strengthen the justice system.
