Delivering his Keynote Address titled “The Plight of Pre-trial Detainees in Nigeria: The Role of Pro-Bono Lawyers” at the Network of University and Legal Aid Institutions (NULAI) Pro Bono Dinner on the 17th December 2019, renowned international Human Rights Activist and Senior Team Manager for the Africa Program, Open Society Justice Initiative (OSJI) Professor Chidi Odinkalu, commended NULAI Nigeria led by Prof. Ernest Ojukwu for building a network of Lawyers from NBA Abuja Branch and Law Students taken from Law Clinics in Baze University, Nile University and University of Abuja to help address pre-trial detention in Kuje, FCT.

In his presentation, Prof. Odinkalu noted that the Scheme has made a real impact in the lives of Nigerians. With over 114 cases pending in different Courts, NULAI is affecting the lives and fates of detainees in different courts who would otherwise have had no access to legal representation.

Prof. Odinkalu also commended the NBA Abuja Branch ably led by Mr. Folarin Aluko for raising the standard within the Bar. Prof Odinkalu cited the various programs run by the NBA Abuja including the Lawyers Health Insurance Scheme and the CPR (Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation) training which was held for lawyers, the effect of which saved the life of a Lawyer’s child on the 4th of November, 2019.

Recall that Prof Odinkalu at the NBA Lagos Annual Human Rights lecture also commended the NBA Abuja Branch led by Mr. Folarin Aluko for its tremendous efforts towards the growth and development of the Branch and society at large. He further charged NBA to look out for basic minor issues such as ensuring lawyers time and resources are not wasted by notifying lawyers when the court will not sit.

Other highlights of the Pro-bono Dinner included an overview of the Achievements of the Reform Kuje Project by Kenechukwu Agwu, and the awards of recognition to pro bono lawyers.