PRESS STATEMENT ISSUED ON THE 17TH OF MAY 2024 AT THE COMMENCEMENT OF THE 2024 NIGERIAN BAR ASSOCIATION, BWARI BRANCH (CRADLE BAR) LAW WEEK AT GADIS EVENT CENTRE, DUTSE MAKARANTA, ABUJA
THEME: STRENGTHENING THE FOUNDATIONS OF JUSTICE.
Good morning distinguished colleagues, esteemed guests, gentlemen of the press and friends of Nigerian Bar Association, Bwari Branch (Cradle Bar).
It is with great pleasure and enthusiasm that I welcome you to this press conference which is to mark the commencement of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Bwari Branch’s Law Week 2024. I am deeply honored to stand before you today as we embark on this journey of reflection, collaboration, and action in pursuit of justice.
Our theme for this year’s Law Week, “Strengthening the Foundation of Justice,” resonates deeply with the core values of our profession and the principles upon which our legal system is built. In a country where justice is often perceived to be elusive and inequality still persists, it is incumbent upon us, as guardians of the law, to reaffirm our commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring access to justice for all. There is indeed the perception by ordinary citizens that what presently operates in Nigeria is the ‘Administration of Law’’ and not ‘’administration of justice’’.
The former being a system riddled by hybrid technicalities, legal jargon, cumbersome adjudicatory procedure and rhetoric. As a Branch we identify the following as the challenges facing the Administration of Justice in Nigeria;
(i) Prolonged Pre-trial Detention (ii) Delayed Trials (iii) Lack of access to Legal Representation (iv) Poor Case Management and in some cases conflicting and perverse judgments for superior courts of record (v) Unethical practices by some Legal Practitioners and law enforcement agents amongst other.
Throughout the week ahead, we will have the opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue, explore pressing legal issues, and champion initiatives that promote fairness, equality, and the protection of human rights.
From discussion sessions and interactive panel discussions, our agenda is designed to inspire, educate, and empower individuals to be agents of positive change in their communities.
The programme will kickstart with a Jumat Service at the Islamic Da’awah Central Mosque, 2/2, Behind Total Fuel Station, Kubwa, FCT by 1:30pm today and we encourage all to be there.
Tomorrow is our sport event which take place at the Public Service Institute, along Kubwa Express Way, here in Dutse. We have variety of sports and a novelty football match between the Senior Members of the Bar and the Young Lawyers forum. The Seniors have been having upper hands in the past 3 years.
There will be a thanksgiving Service of Sunday at the Gospel Faith Mission International (Arena of Grace), Besnal Plaza, Gado Nasko Road, Kubwa.
I am particularly excited about the diverse lineup of events and the esteemed speakers and panelists who have graciously agreed to lend their expertise and insights to our discussions. Together, we will delve into critical topics such as The 2023 General Election, The Challenges and lesson learn, Appointment of Judges and Issues Impacting Speedy Dispensation of justice, Doing Business in Nigeria, Economic Survival and Justice Delivery (Where is the meeting Point), The Nigerian Lawyer: Scale of Charges, Use of Technology and Lawyers Welfare and Factors Militating Against Security in Nigeria.
As we gather here today, let us reaffirm our collective commitment to strengthening the foundation of justice, not just for ourselves but for future generations. Let us seize this opportunity to amplify our voices, mobilize our resources, and work collaboratively towards a more just, equitable, and inclusive society.
In conclusion, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Law week Planning committee headed by Mrs. Chinyere Moneme, our sponsors, partners, and volunteers who have worked tirelessly to make this event possible. I also extend my heartfelt appreciation to all of you for your presence here today and your unwavering support of our shared mission. 
Together, let us embark on this journey with optimism, determination, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Thank you.
Paul Babatunde Daudu Esq .,
Chairman , NBA Bwari Branch
