Yesterday, March 5, 2025, the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, welcomed a delegation from the United States Embassy, led by Mr. Timothy Smith, to the NBA Secretariat in Abuja. The visit was aimed at fostering collaboration between the embassy and the NBA, recognizing the NBA’s critical role as a major stakeholder in strengthening Nigeria’s legal framework and security architecture.
The leader of the U.S. delegation expressed gratitude for the warm reception and underscored key initiatives of the United States, including the Transparency Project and the enforcement of targeted U.S. sanctions on individuals implicated in corruption and human rights violations. He emphasized the U.S. commitment to working with the NBA in promoting transparency, accountability, and the rule of law in Nigeria.
In response, NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, reaffirmed the NBA’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and identified several critical areas for potential collaboration, including:
• Weak Enforcement of Terrorism Laws: The NBA President stressed the need for stronger enforcement mechanisms to combat terrorism effectively and ensure national security.
• Stifling of Freedom of Speech Online: He expressed concerns about increasing restrictions on online freedom of expression and advocated for a balanced approach that upholds fundamental rights while addressing security concerns.
• Creation of State Police: The President highlighted the urgent need for state policing to enhance localized security and improve law enforcement efficiency.
• Advocacy with the Military: He referenced the NBA’s recent intervention that led to the release of Mr. Kelvin Okoye, a lawyer who was unlawfully detained by the Nigerian Navy, reinforcing the NBA’s commitment to protecting the rights of legal practitioners and ensuring compliance with due process.
The meeting concluded with a mutual understanding that the NBA, as a key stakeholder in Nigeria’s justice sector, will play a vital role in driving reforms and promoting collaborations that foster a secure and just society. Both parties agreed to explore structured engagement towards achieving these objectives.
