The just concluded Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Annual Conference in Enugu, the Coal City of Nigeria, was one of the most remarkable in recent years, an event that combined intellectual depth, social vibrancy, and memorable hospitality.
I arrived a day before the official commencement on August 21st, eager for what was to come. The conference opened with a sports walk covering several kilometres, followed by a colourful opening ceremony. Although former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who was announced as Chairman, was absent, the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar Muhammadu CFR, ably filled the gap. Julius Malema, the firebrand South African politician, gave a stirring keynote address that set the tone for the days ahead.
Across plenary and breakout sessions, delegates engaged with a wide range of issues: human rights, good governance, access to justice, insecurity, gender inclusiveness, alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, and the justiciability of socio-economic rights. These subjects were handled with maturity and intellectual rigour, leaving participants both enlightened and inspired.
Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State and his team deserve commendation for excellent hospitality. Security was tight, logistics well managed, and the social environment delightful. The famous “mammy market” buzzed with energy, offering an endless array of delicacies – abacha, ugba, ukwa, okpa, ofe onugbu, uha soup, akidi with fish, and an assortment of local drinks. Delegates from all regions of Nigeria immersed themselves fully in the city’s warmth and culture.
Despite the successes, there were concerns. Some delegates questioned the prominence given to new wigs and politically exposed personalities such as Dino Melaye, Adeyanju, and Osita Chidoka. This, they argued, disregarded the profession’s long-standing respect for seniority. Others suggested the theme, “Standing Out, Standing Tall,” may have inspired such choices. Whatever the reason/s, seniority at the bar should be respected by future planners, I plead.
In addition, hotel and transport providers sharply increased prices to exploit the influx of visitors, leaving participants with little option but to comply.
Amid the excitement of the conference, one sombre issue demands urgent attention – the plight of Barrister Bright Ngene, a lawyer and lawmaker-elect for Enugu South Urban Constituency, who has remained incarcerated under questionable circumstances.
His appeal against conviction has suffered delays, though the Attorney-General of Enugu State, Mr. Kingsley Udeh (SAN-designate), assured me that the matter has now been assigned by the Chief Judge and will likely be heard immediately after the vacation.
Still, I plead with Governor Mbah to demonstrate statesmanship by exercising the power of clemency. Releasing Barr. Ngene will not only affirm justice but also allow him to take his rightful place in the State House of Assembly, where his constituents – who reaffirmed their mandate in the recent rerun election – await his representation. Such a step will earn the Governor enduring political goodwill and stand as a rare example of magnanimity in Nigerian politics.
Overall, the 2025 NBA Conference in Enugu was a resounding success. It brought together colleagues from every region, many attending to broaden their horizons and others to see firsthand that the East is far safer and more hospitable than sometimes portrayed in the media.
Special appreciation must go to the NBA President, Afam Osigwe, SAN, the Conference Planning Committee led by Emeka Obegolu, SAN, and the Local Organising Committee chaired by Ikeazor Akaraiwe, SAN, for their outstanding work.
Yet, for the NBA to meet global benchmarks, we must look back to the 2019 Lagos Conference under A. B. Mahmoud, SAN, which was coordinated by Prof. Koyinsola Ajayi, SAN. That event – despite its cost, remains the closest to the International Bar Association’s standards and should serve as a guide for the future.
The Enugu 2025 Conference was rich in thrills, lessons, and camaraderie. But its ultimate legacy will, in part, depend on how swiftly the case of Barr. Bright Ngene is resolved. Justice delayed for him is justice denied for his people.
As we look forward to Rivers State hosting the next edition in 2026, let us build on this year’s achievements, correct the lapses, and continue to make the NBA a model of professional excellence and justice.
Long live NBA, Long live Nigeria!
Dr M.O. Ubani SAN
2025 NBA Enugu Annual Conference Participant.
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