The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Jos Branch’s annual Law Week has once again demonstrated the branch’s commitment to excellence, professional growth, and community impact. This year’s program, themed “Justice in the Digital Age: The Intersection of Technology and Law,” featured a blend of spiritual, intellectual, and social activities that underscored the branch’s leading role in the northern region of Nigeria.
Highlights of the Event
The Law Week commenced on Friday, November 29, 2024, with a spiritual Jumat Prayer session, followed by a health walk and recreational games on Saturday, November 30, 2024, emphasizing the importance of physical well-being among legal practitioners.
On Sunday, December 1, 2024, members gathered at ECWA II Jenta, Jos, for a Thanksgiving service. Later that evening, a grand cocktail was held, graced by distinguished legal luminaries such as Chief Garba Pwul SAN, Paul Harris Ogbole, SAN, and High Chief Emeka Ozoani, SAN, who lauded the branch’s achievements and its prominence in northern Nigeria.
The Grand Opening and Achievements
The official opening ceremony on Monday, December 2, 2024, featured the Executive Governor of Plateau State, represented by the Secretary to the Government, who declared the event open. The keynote address, titled “Justice in the Digital Age: The Intersection of Technology and Law,” set the tone for forward-thinking discussions throughout the week.
During the opening, the NBA Jos Branch showcased its ongoing Secretariat renovation project, which has been a hallmark achievement of the branch’s leadership. Notably, High Chief Paul Harris Ogbole, SAN, donated ₦500,000 to support the project, reflecting his commitment to the growth of the legal profession in Jos.
Sessions and Expert Contributions
On Tuesday, December 3, 2024, the program featured diverse sessions led by the Federation of International Women Lawyers (FIDA), the Young Lawyers Forum (YLF), and committees on Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and Human Rights. These sessions provided participants with insights into leveraging technology for dispute resolution, human rights advocacy, and professional development.
Today, December 4, 2024, the event will continue with the Bar and Bench Forum, followed by a gala dinner.
Paul Harris Ogbole, SAN: A Pillar of Support and Excellence
A highlight of the event was the goodwill message from Paul Harris Ogbole, SAN, who commended the NBA Jos Branch for its recognition as one of the best in the northern region. He praised the branch’s leadership for its numerous achievements, including its infrastructural development, successful programs, and advocacy for legal excellence.
Ogbole, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, brings decades of legal expertise and public service to the profession. His career spans various leadership roles, including serving as a member of the National Executive Council of the NBA, the EFCC Board, and numerous legal committees. His goodwill message highlighted the importance of collaboration, innovation, and continuous development within the legal profession.
Achievements of the NBA Jos Branch
Under the leadership of successive administrations, the NBA Jos Branch has:
- Initiated and advanced the renovation of its Secretariat.
- Organized impactful law week programs addressing contemporary legal challenges.
- Fostered mentorship programs for young lawyers through the YLF.
- Strengthened its ADR and Human Rights Committees, aligning with national and global legal trends.
Looking Ahead
With the ongoing Law Week and its forward-looking theme, the NBA Jos Branch continues to position itself as a hub for legal excellence and innovation in Nigeria. As Paul Harris Ogbole, SAN, aptly stated, “The success of the NBA Jos Branch is a testament to the unity, dedication, and visionary leadership of its members.”
