SPEECH DELIVERED BY THE HONOURABLE ATTORNEY GENERAL OF ONDO STATE, DR. OLUKAYODE AJULO, OON, SAN AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE NIGERIAN BAR ASSOCIATION-NEC MEETING HELD ON THE 6TH OF FEBRUARY, 2025 AT AKURE, ONDO STATE.
PROTOCOLS.
– The Executive Governor of Ondo State, His Excellency, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa.
– The President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Chief Afam Osigwe, SAN.
– My Lords, Honourable Justices of the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal here present.
– The Honourable Chief Judge of Ondo State.
– The Presiding Justices and Judges of the various courts present.
– Members of the National Executive Council (NEC) of the NBA.
– Senior Advocates of Nigeria.
– Chairmen and Secretaries of the NBA Branches.
– Learned Colleagues, Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen.
Introduction.
It is with profound joy and great privilege that I extend a heartfelt welcome to each of you in the historic city of Akure, the esteemed capital of Ondo State. Today, we gather for the Third Quarter Meeting of the National Executive Council of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA-NEC), a momentous occasion marking the return of this gathering to our state after a span of nearly fifteen years.
This is not merely an event; it is an opportunity to rejuvenate the professional camaraderie that binds us as legal practitioners and advocates for justice.
The NBA-NEC meeting serves as a vital platform for addressing pressing issues that affect our profession, the rule of law, and the administration of justice. It is a time for introspection, decisive action, and a renewed commitment to the principles that have long guided our noble profession: justice, fairness, and the steadfast pursuit of the rule of law.
THE ROLE OF THE NBA IN NATION-BUILDING.
The Nigerian Bar Association stands as the preeminent professional body for lawyers in Nigeria, playing a pivotal role in shaping our nation’s legal and democratic framework. As proud members of this distinguished association, we share a collective duty to ensure that justice is not only rendered but is perceived as equitable in every aspect of our national life.
Throughout the years, the NBA has consistently championed the cause of judicial independence, the protection of human rights, and the accountability of governmental institutions.
Our presence here today underscores our unwavering commitment to these ideals and our determination to advocate for a legal system that serves the interests of all Nigerians.
ONDO STATE’S COMMITMENT TO JUSTICE AND THE RULE OF LAW.
Ondo State has long been recognized as a beacon of legal excellence, having nurtured some of Nigeria’s most distinguished legal practitioners and jurists. Under the esteemed leadership of His Excellency, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, the Ondo State government remains steadfast in its dedication to fortifying the legal and judicial framework within our state.
Our Ministry of Justice has embarked on transformative reforms aimed at enhancing access to justice, expediting case resolutions, and ensuring that every citizen of Ondo State fully benefits from the law. Key initiatives currently underway include: – The implementation of digital case management systems in select courts to boost efficiency.
– The expansion of legal aid services to guarantee that underprivileged individuals have access to competent legal representation.
– Collaborations with the private sector to promote Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms and alleviate court congestion.
-Legislation against land grabbing by land speculators and interlopers.
-Mandatory franking and documentation of all land transactions by legal Practitioners.
–State action on Business enabling reform programme which is a three performance to state government- FRILA.
– Promotion of Transparency and Efficiency InThe Business.
-Regulation on approval and construction of buildings and physical structures in Ondo state.
-Establishment of Ondo State properties protection (anti-land grabbing task force)
We eagerly anticipate ongoing collaboration with the NBA in advancing these vital reforms.
CONCLUSION.
As we engage in the discussions ahead, let us remember that our roles as lawyers transcend the confines of the courtroom. We are the custodians of justice, defenders of the constitution, and advocates for those without a voice. While the challenges we face are considerable, they are not beyond our reach.
I urge each of you to participate actively in our discussions, contribute thoughtfully to the resolutions we adopt, and most importantly, take concrete steps to implement these resolutions beyond this gathering.
Once more, I extend a warm welcome to all of you in Ondo State. May your time here be productive, and may this meeting further strengthen our collective resolve to cultivate a legal profession of which we can all be proud.
Thank you, and may blessings abound for the Nigerian Bar Association, Ondo State, and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
