1st January, 2025

Dear Esteemed Colleague,

As we stand on the cusp of a new year, I write to you with a heart full of gratitude, hope, and unwavering commitment to our shared ideals and aspirations. The year 2024 was a journey marked by triumphs, trials, and tremendous lessons. Together, we have navigated the tides of change, deepened the bonds of unity within our association, and upheld the noble ideals of justice, integrity, and professional excellence.

In 2024, we celebrated milestones that reflected the resilience and brilliance of our members. From thought-provoking conferences to groundbreaking initiatives, your contributions continued to affirm the Nigerian Bar Association as a beacon of legal excellence and societal transformation. We also faced moments of loss and grief, as we bade farewell to some of our brightest lights. Yet, in their memory, we are reminded of the profound duty we owe—to ourselves, our profession, and our nation—to uphold the legacy they left behind.

On a personal note, I am deeply humbled by the privilege to serve as your General Secretary; Each day on this role has brought me closer to the heart of this Association—the selfless sacrifices, the innovative ideas, and the unrelenting passion of our members across the country. I thank you for your trust, your support, and the camaraderie that has made this journey not just fulfilling but truly inspiring.

As we step into 2025, let us embrace it with renewed purpose. Let us envision a Bar that is more inclusive, a profession that is more innovative, and a nation that is more just. The challenges ahead may be daunting, but they are no match for the collective strength, wisdom, and resolve that we, as lawyers, bring to the table.

I call on all members to contribute their quota, however small, to our collective aspirations. Whether through mentorship, public interest litigation, or fostering ethical practices, let us leave an indelible mark in the society we serve.

To my President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, your vision and leadership continue to inspire us all, the National Executive Committee Team. To my colleagues in the NBA Secretariat, thank you for your unyielding dedication and hard work. To my predecessors in office, your efforts have laid a solid foundation upon which we continue to build. To every branch, each member, and every supporter of the Bar, you are the heartbeat of this Association, and I am deeply honoured to serve.

Going forward, I am pleased to inform you that the NBA National Secretariat will continue to be open for services to all our members through its various departments. These services are designed to ensure efficiency, accessibility, and optimal satisfaction for all members of the Bar:

1. Membership and Bar Services:

All services related to the production of stamps, verification and licensing, health insurance schemes, and recommendations for good standing with the Association are accessible through this department. You can reach the team via [email protected]

2. Legal Regulatory and Compliance Services:

For professional compliance, ethics, and disciplinary services, our Legal Regulatory and Compliance department is at your service. Contact the team via [email protected]

3. Human Rights Institute and Pro Bono Centre:

The Programmes Department ensures effective delivery of its core mandate for the promotion of the rule of law, making the law an accessible instrument for social change. For inquiries, kindly reach out via [email protected]

4. Institute of Continuing Legal Education (ICLE):

For all education and training services, the ICLE remains committed to equipping our members with cutting-edge knowledge and skills. The department can be reached via [email protected]

I am personally committed to serving every member of this great Association and fostering closer ties with all branches and individuals. You are welcome to reach out to me directly via [email protected]

May the year 2025 bring us closer to the ideals of justice, equity, and prosperity for all. Let us carry forward the torch of excellence, knowing that our work today shapes the future of our profession and our nation.

Happy New Year!

DR. MOBOLAJI OJIBARA

General Secretary

Nigerian Bar Association