President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Mrs. Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, SAN, FCIArb, has joined the Lagos State Judiciary and members of the legal profession in marking the commencement of the 2026/2027 Legal Year.
The NBA President participated in the New Legal Year Thanksgiving Service alongside the Chief Judge of Lagos State, Justice Kazeem Olanrewaju Alogba, judicial officers and members of the Bar.
Badejo-Okusanya described the beginning of a new legal year as an opportunity for institutions within the justice system to renew their commitment to justice, protection of rights and strengthening public confidence in the rule of law.
She also emphasised the shared responsibility of the Bar and Bench in developing a justice system that is accessible, effective and responsive to the needs of those it serves.
The relationship between lawyers and the judiciary remains central to justice delivery.
Judges depend upon lawyers for properly presented cases, professional advocacy and compliance with procedural rules, while lawyers and litigants depend upon the courts for impartial and timely determination of disputes.
Where either side fails, delays and declining public trust can follow.
The NBA President’s intervention therefore places institutional cooperation within the wider question of how Nigerians experience the justice system.
Access to justice is not measured only by the existence of courts or legal rules. It also encompasses the time required to resolve disputes, cost of litigation, treatment of court users, enforceability of judgments and public confidence that proceedings are fair.
As Lagos begins its new legal year, these issues are likely to remain central to conversations around judicial reform, technology, case management and court administration.
Badejo-Okusanya urged members of the profession to serve with integrity and courage while working towards a justice system in which access to justice becomes a practical reality.
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NBA President Flags Key Judicial Reforms at Federal High Court Legal Year
SOURCE:
LawHauz
