The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Sokoto Branch Young Lawyers Forum (YLF) successfully hosted its inaugural Mentorship Series on October 14, 2024, in line with the branch chairman’s campaign promises and strategic blueprint. The event was designed to empower and inspire young lawyers through the shared experiences of esteemed professionals from the Bar, Bench, and Academia.
The inaugural session featured the Honourable Chief Judge of Sokoto State, Hon. M.S. Sifawa, Life Bencher, as the distinguished guest mentor. Other notable attendees included Prof. Ibrahim Abdullahi S.A.N., YLF Liaison Officer; Hon. Justice M. Mahmoud, Justice of the High Court Sokoto; Hajiya Maryam Dogondaji Esq., Chief Registrar of the High Court; Rashidat Mohammad Esq., Chairman of the Caliphate Bar; Aliyu Ja’afar Esq., Assistant Chief Registrar; senior lawyers; young lawyers; members of the press; judicial workers; security personnel; and law students on externship.
The event was anchored by His Worship, Fatima Umar Dewa, Acting Chief Registrar of the Sharia Court of Appeal.
Highlights from the Chief Judge’s Address
Chief Judge Hon. M.S. Sifawa shared his inspiring journey, beginning with his humble origins in Sifawa village, Bodinga Local Government Area. He recounted his early education at Sifawa Primary School and Ahmadu Bello Academy, followed by a brief stint at the Ministry of Rural Development. His journey into law was influenced by a friend, leading him to pursue a degree in Law at Usman Danfodiyo University, graduating in 1990, and completing the Nigerian Law School in 1991.
Reflecting on his legal career, which began in 1992 with his appointment to the High Court, the Chief Judge discussed the challenges he faced and the importance of balancing professional and personal life. He encouraged young lawyers to prioritize honesty, transparency, and dedication in their legal practice.
Mentorship Program Feedback
Prof. Ibrahim Abdullahi S.A.N. commended the NBA Sokoto branch for organizing the first-ever mentorship series in its history, urging young lawyers to take deliberate steps in their professional journeys. Similarly, Hon. Justice Prof. Mu’awiyya encouraged humility and thoughtful career planning.
NBA Sokoto Branch Chairman, Rashidat Mohammad Esq., stressed the program’s alignment with national objectives and encouraged participants to remain authentic, manage pressure effectively, and embrace continuous learning. She proposed holding the Mentorship Series monthly, inviting various legal professionals to share insights with young lawyers.
In his concluding remarks, the Honourable Chief Judge advised the forum’s leadership to collaborate with national stakeholders to expand the program’s reach and impact, emphasizing the critical role of mentorship in professional growth.
Closing Remarks and Donation
The Forum Chairman, A.A. Sokoto, expressed gratitude on behalf of the young lawyers, presenting an honorarium to the Chief Judge. The event concluded with a Q&A session and closing prayers.
In a notable gesture, Chief Judge Hon. M.S. Sifawa donated 200,000 Naira to support a disabled law student and pledged to sponsor the student throughout his studies.
For further inquiries, please contact:
Destiny Onyema Esq.
Assistant Publicity Secretary (YLF Caliphate Bar)
Email: destinylegal15@gmail.com
