Akpomudje Charges New Lawyers to Improve Legal Practice in Nigeria

THE Chairman of the Body of Benchers, HRM Albert Akpomudje, SAN, Eyavwien-Alaka I, has called on newly qualified lawyers in Nigeria to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and ethical conduct as they begin their legal careers.

Speaking during the Call to Bar ceremony held in Abuja, Akpomudje congratulated the new legal practitioners on reaching a significant milestone in their professional journey. 

The legal Monarch described their admission into the Nigerian Bar as both an honour and a solemn responsibility that demands unwavering commitment to justice, the rule of law, and service to society.

The BOB Chairman urged the new lawyers to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of the legal profession by embracing continuous learning, diligence, and respect for the ethics that guide legal practice.

According to him, the future of Nigeria’s justice system depends largely on the quality, competence, and character of the nation’s legal practitioners.

“The legal profession remains one of the most important pillars of democracy and good governance. As you are called to the Bar today, you must strive to uphold the rule of law, defend justice without fear or favour, and maintain the highest standards of integrity in all your professional engagements,” he said.

The Chairman BOB used the opportunity to cautioned Management of Nigerian universities to stick to the allotted admission quotas to avoid sanctions from the regulatory body as many exceed the approved quotas thereby creating admission problems for the Council of Legal education. 

Akpomudje encouraged the ‘new wigs’ to avoid unethical practices capable of tarnishing the image of the profession, stressing that honesty, discipline, and accountability should remain their guiding principles throughout their careers.

He also challenged them to leverage tutelage, technology, innovation, and continuous professional development to improve legal service delivery and contribute to reforms that will strengthen Nigeria’s justice system.

The Chairman further reminded the ‘new wigs’ that the legal profession offers opportunities not only for personal success but also for national development through the protection of human rights, promotion of constitutional democracy, and peaceful resolution of disputes.

The Call to Bar ceremony officially admitted a new set of qualified lawyers into the Nigerian Bar, marking the successful completion of their legal education and professional training.

The event was attended by senior members of the legal profession, judicial officers, government officials, family members, and well-wishers who gathered to celebrate the accomplishments of the new legal practitioners.