On September 12, 2024, a historic meeting took place between the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) at the NBA headquarters. The event was marked by a significant collaboration between the two prominent organizations, focused on upholding the rule of law and safeguarding the rights of Nigerian citizens.
The meeting began with opening remarks from Mazi Adam Osigwe, SAN, the President of the NBA. In his address, Osigwe underscored the NBA’s commitment to fortifying Nigeria’s legal institutions and promoting social justice. He assured the NLC that the NBA was ready to partner in advocating for policies that respect citizens’ rights and enhance legal protections.
Osigwe highlighted the active role of the NBA’s Pro-bono department, which provides free legal representation to indigent citizens facing prosecution. This initiative aims to ensure that access to justice is not limited by financial constraints.
The NLC delegation, led by President Comrade Joe Ajero, was warmly welcomed by the newly elected NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, and his executive team. The visit allowed both organizations to discuss their shared goals of reinforcing democracy and ensuring that governance is grounded in justice, fairness, and accountability.
During the meeting, Comrade Ajero reiterated the NLC’s commitment to collaborating with the NBA to protect workers’ rights and uphold democratic principles. He emphasized the necessity of a robust legal framework that defends citizens from abuse, supports freedom of association, and maintains democratic norms.
Both leaders condemned the criminalization of civil protests and agreed on the crucial need to adhere to the rule of law at all levels of governance. They expressed hope that this partnership would lead to substantial improvements in Nigeria’s political and socio-economic landscape.
The meeting marked a pivotal moment in the cooperation between the legal and labor sectors, signaling a unified effort to drive positive change in Nigeria. The collaboration aims to enhance the protection of citizen rights and reinforce the foundations of a just and equitable society.
