Governor of Enugu State, Peter Mbah, has reminded members of the Nigerian Bar Association that the law transcends a mere profession, serving instead as the conscience of the nation.
Mbah stated this on Sunday at the opening of the 2025 Annual General Conference of the NBA, held at the International Conference Centre, Enugu.
He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to justice sector reform, which he described as the cornerstone of his government.
“The theme of this year’s conference, ‘Stand Out, Stand Tall,’ is a timely reminder of the responsibility we bear as lawyers and leaders,” Mbah said.
“The law is not just a profession – it is the conscience of the nation. We are not only courtroom advocates; we are also defenders of truth, architects of peace, and champions of equity.”
Highlighting steps taken by his administration to strengthen the justice system, the governor said Enugu was among the first states to fully implement financial autonomy for the judiciary in line with Section 121(3) of the Constitution, a move which, according to him, has enhanced the efficiency, independence, and dignity of the courts.
He added that the government had also rehabilitated and digitised courtrooms across the three senatorial zones, with the High Court Complex in Enugu now equipped with e-filing, virtual hearing facilities, and an integrated case management system.
He further noted that to decongest the courts and promote alternative dispute resolution, the Enugu Multi-Door Courthouse had been strengthened and expanded, making it a regional model for commercial and family dispute settlement.
He said his government had also partnered with civil society and the NBA to expand access to pro bono legal services for indigent citizens and detainees, particularly in rural areas.
Mbah disclosed that the state had carried out an extensive codification and review of obsolete laws to reflect modern realities, ensure gender justice, and promote the ease of doing business.
“ Perhaps most significantly, our government introduced real-time transcription for court proceedings, eliminating the strain of longhand recording on judges, reducing delays, and improving productivity,” he said.
The governor, however, stressed that none of these reforms was an end in itself but part of a broader vision to make Enugu State the preferred destination for investment, innovation, and inclusive development.
“From smart schools to safe communities and accessible healthcare, our vision cannot be achieved without a justice system that is fair, functional, and trusted,” he added.
The opening ceremony was chaired by the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III, while the keynote address was delivered by the leader of South Africa’s Economic Freedom Fighters and member of parliament, Julius Malema.
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