Lagos NBA Law Week : Time To Upgrade Lawyers Told

 

Nigerian lawyers have been told to upgrade and equip themselves so that they can better face the competition coming from International law firms. These were the views of most speakers at the weeklong annual Nigerian Bar Association Lagos branch event, with the theme “Charting New Legal Frontiers: Practice of Law in Nigeria, Cross-Border Alliances & Partnerships,”

Setting the tone for what was to come, the keynote Speaker Mr. Segun Osuntokun, whose Address was titled “Adapting to Global Shifts in Legal Practice” spoke extensively on the need for law firms to be prepared to face the coming of International firms who are coming to Nigeria with well structure administrative style, well functional offices, good salary structure urge lawyers to rise to the game in paying their staff well so that they can retain them because Nigerian lawyers are very talented and are sort after by a of International firms.

‘’We must embrace technology and the new world of ICT and the development of AI and its solutions, While protecting your clients is very important, you should think about it in line with cybercrime and its attendant implications particularly when it comes to the very vexed issue of stealing of clients personal information with you. This is an area where international law firms invest a lot and you should do the same’’, Osuntokun added   

Following the keynote address, the first plenary session delved into the topic “Global Legal Trends and their Impacts on Nigerian Legal Practice: Navigating the New Norms”. Expert panelists including Prof. George Etomi, Prof. Gbolahan Elias, and Dr. Eyimofe Atake provided insightful perspectives on emerging trends and sparked thought-provoking discussions among attendees.

Mr George Etomi, stated emphatically ‘’that the Nigerian legal system needs modernization to stay competitive globally. He noted that we should assess the sector’s worth to understand the growing international interest. Additionally, collaboration with the government is crucial to ensure Nigerian law firms are prioritized, particularly for foreign clients with cases in the country’’

Earlier in his welcome address the chairman of NBA Lagos, Mr. Olabisi Makanjuola said that this year’s theme, “ChartingNew Legal Frontiers: Practice of Law in Nigeria, Cross-Border Alliances & Partnerships,” reflects our commitment to exploring the ever-evolving landscape of legal practice with precision and purpose. Picture this, not just as an ordinary gathering, but as a crucible of ideas where seasoned professionals and aspiring legal minds converge to engage in meaningful discourse.

Through insightful debates and thought-provoking discussions led by our carefully selected lineup of speakers, panelists, and moderators, we aim to shed light on the most pressing challenges and exciting opportunities facing our profession today and tomorrow. Of particular interest will be the riveting discussion on the future of the Nigerian Bar Association. This presents a unique opportunity for us to scrutinize visions and actively participate in shaping the future of our esteemed association.

Also speaking at the event, the chairman of the planning committee for the event Mrs Folashade Alli, SAN, extensively spoke on the need for Lawyers to adapt to the global shifts in the legal world. She said, “We are navigating an era where global partnerships and cross-border collaborations are not just beneficial; they are imperative for success and sustainability.”

The atmosphere was charged with enthusiasm as legal professionals from various sectors came together to exchange ideas and build connections. The week-long event ended on Saturday with lawyers having fun with members of their families and love once at the Muri Okunola pack.

 

 

 

 

 

Adeniji Kaze em's Book “Nigerian Law of Electronic Transactions,” Launched

 The book “Nigerian Law of Electronic Transactions,” written by the former Lagos state Commissioner of Justice and Attorney General, Adeniji Kazeem, SAN, turns out to be the meeting point of notable jurists, Judges, and politicians who all praised the former Ag, for his contribution to legal practice.

Setting the ball rolling was Attorney General and Minister for Justice of the Federation, AGF, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, who was the chairman of the event.

Fagbemi said: “Let me reiterate that the publication of resource materials such as the book being unveiled today is a welcome idea. It is timely and could not have come at a better time.

“In some of my recent public interventions, I have emphasized the fact that legal practice/education, and indeed all spheres of human existence can no longer feign ignorance of the pervasive effect of information and communication technology on our lives.

“This has even become more pronounced with the proliferation of Artificial Intelligence wherein physical human involvements are now gradually being limited and/or phased out in the way we live and do business.

“Expectedly, therefore, and as legal professionals, we cannot but take the bull by the horns, in proffering the ground rules for a seamless transition from our present situation to this new world order. As we navigate the 21st century, the intertwined nature of law and technology becomes increasingly desired,” he added.

Governor Sanwo-Olu and his Deputy, Hamzat,  represented by the Commissioner for Justice Lawal praised Kazeem’s contribution to legal practice saying the book came at the right time due to the current trend across global. 

The Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Tsoho who Justice Yinka Faji represented, hailed the author and noted that with the new book, judges can now have more material to broaden their knowledge.

On his part, Kazeem said the inspiration to write the book arose from witnessing the rapid digital transformation reshaping commercial transactions across Nigeria and the globe.

’’The inspiration for writing this book arose from witnessing the rapid digital transformation reshaping commercial transactions across Nigeria and the globe. Here in Nigeria, we are experiencing a surge in electronic payment activity, driven by innovation and changing consumer behaviour. Data from the Nigerian Inter-Bank Settlement Systems Plc (NIBSS) paints an interesting picture. The value of electronic payment transactions reached a staggering N600 Trillion in 2023, a 55% increase from N387 Trillion in 2022. Transaction volume has also significantly risen from 5.1 billion in 2022 to 9.7 billion in 2023. While these figures may not all translate to completed commercial transactions from a purely legal standpoint, they undeniably point towards a massive increase in digital transactions across the nation.’’

Others who also praised the ex-Lagos AG, Kazeem include legal luminary, Alhaji Femi Okunnu, SAN, former Lagos state governor Akinwunmi Ambode, who was represented by Mr. Steve Ayoride, the state Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, Lawal Pedro, SAN, among others.

 

 

Emir of Kano to Speak at NBA/SBL Annual Business in Abuja.

 

The 18th International Business Law Conference, proudly hosted by the Nigeria Bar Association Section on Business Law is set to take place from June 26th to 28th, 2024, at the Abuja Continental Hotel.

This year's event is significant as thought leaders, legal experts, and business professionals from around the globe will gather to explore the latest trends, challenges, and innovations in business law in Nigeria and beyond.

Speaking at a press conference in Lagos to herald the coming event, the Chairman of NBA/SBL Dr. Adeoye Adefulu said that the event is coming at a time when the nation is facing difficulty in many areas and the ease of doing business has been eroded by the difficult economic challenges facing the nation hence the theme for this year’s event is Survive & THRIVE

‘’And because of this we have carefully selected speakers for this year’s event with the Emir of Kano, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, as the keynote speaker’’

Dr. Adefulu added that the emir's choice was not political in any way but was based on the fact that he is an economist whose works have had a lasting effect on the lives of Nigerians.

 Also speaking on the event Mr. Ose Okpeku, the chairman of the planning committee said that just like last year's conference, this year’s event will be a hybrid event, while Mr. Ugonna Ogbuagu added that there will be five plenary sessions discussing the capital market, agriculture, technology and innovations, legal practice and partnership while there will be various breakaway sessions including one on sports betting.  

This conference will be the largest gathering of business lawyers in Nigeria, with over 1,000 lawyers and legal professionals expected to converge at the venue. With approximately 20 working sessions covering all practice areas relevant to lawyers and the Nigerian business community, attendees can anticipate invaluable professional development and networking opportunities.

Since its inception in 2004, the NBA-SBL Annual Business Law Conference has been a pivotal platform for decision-makers in the economy’s public and private sectors. The 2024 conference promises to attract a distinguished faculty of knowledgeable speakers and resource persons from within and outside Nigeria.

The NBA-SBL will also be celebrating its 20th anniversary at this year’s event as well.

 

 

 

 

CIARB NIGERIA BRANCH GETS NEW EXCO

The Nigerian Branch of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb) has inaugurated it new Executive Committee.

Leading the new stellar cast of renowned Arbitrators is Mrs. Olusola Adegbonmire, a Chartered Arbitrator, who has been sworn in as the new Chairman of the Branch. She replaces the foremost Chartered Arbitrator and Senior Lawyer, Chief Akingbola Akinola, SAN, whose three-year tenure ended during the recent Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Institute held at its Lekki, Lagos Headquarters.

Mrs. Adegbonmire is a consummate Legal Practitioner and Partner at the Lagos Law Firm of Sola Ajijola and Co. where she has practiced for over 35 years. She is a Chartered Arbitrator and has been a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators for 25 years.

Adegbonmire is listed on the Approved Faculty List of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators as a Tutor and Assessor and has taught within Nigeria and in other countries such as Dubai, Rwanda, and Ghana.

She serves on the Board of the prestigious Kigali International Arbitration Centre (KIAC), in Rwanda. She is also an Accredited Mediator of the Centre for Effective Dispute Resolution (CEDR), United Kingdom, and a Member of the Panel of Neutrals of the Lagos Multi-Door Courthouse where she has a very active practice as an Arbitrator and a Mediator.

Others elected into the Executive Committee are Mr. Seyilayo Ojo, SAN, C.Arb, who retains his position as Chairman, Training Sub-Committee; Mrs. Funke Agbor, SAN, FCIArb; Dr. Adeyemi Agbelusi, FCIArb, Secretary; Dr. Kola Mayomi, FCIArb, Treasurer and Mrs. Chioma S. Jack, MCIArb, Public Relations Officer.

Following their stellar services to the Branch, Mrs. Miannaya Essien, SAN, C.Arb (3rd Vice Chairman/Chair, Membership Sub-Committee); immediate past Branch Treasurer, Mr. Emeka Nwadioke, MCIArb (Press Liaison Officer) and erstwhile Assistant Secretary, Mrs. Olushola Adeniran, ACIArb (Events Coordinator) were co-opted into the Executive Committee.

Other members of the Executive Committee are Chief Akinola (Immediate Past Chairman); Prof. Paul Idornigie, SAN, C.Arb (1st Vice Chairman); Mrs. Obosa Akpata, C.Arb, (2nd Vice Chairman); Mrs. Yejide Osunkeye, FCIArb; Mr. Esosa Omo-Usoh, MCIArb; Mr. Ikenna Okoli SAN, FCIArb; Hon. Mela Audu Nunghe, SAN, FCIArb and Mr. Agba Eimunjeze, FCIArb.

Also included as Members of the Executive Committee are Hon. Olusola Ephraim-Oluwanuga, mni, C.Arb (Chairman, Abuja Chapter); Mr. Emeka Onyeka, FCIArb (Chairman, Port Harcourt Chapter);  Mr. Kazeem Gbadamosi, SAN, MCIArb (Chairman, Ibadan Chapter), Mrs. Nania Owusu Ankomah-Sackey, FCIArb (Chairman, Ghana Chapter), and Mr. Emoubonuvie Majemite, ACIArb (Chairman, Young Members Group).

Following her election, Mrs. Adegbonmire promised to work with all relevant stakeholders to ensure the growth of arbitration in Nigeria.

CIArb is the recognised global thought leader on Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), and has the world’s largest community of private dispute resolution professionals. The Institute's membership of over 17,500 professionals spans over 40 active Branches across approximately 150 jurisdictions.