At the recent Law Week event hosted by the Maiduguri and Biu branches of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Tobenna Erojikwe, the Chairman of the Governing Council of the NBA Institute of Continuing Legal Education (NBA-ICLE), delivered a thought-provoking speech on “Building Back the Legal Profession Through Visionary and Progressive Policies.”
Tobenna Erojikwe touched on various challenges plaguing the legal profession in Nigeria and advocated for a comprehensive overhaul of the legal practice framework. He emphasised the urgent need for a post-qualification practice framework within the Nigerian legal profession, a critical aspect currently lacking.
According to Tobenna Erojikwe, the profession must focus on rebuilding its perception to attract collaborations from international donor agencies, establish an effective access to finance regime that enables lawyers to obtain financing at reasonable rates, invest in continuing professional development, and implement a well-structured technological and digital awareness system.
“The legal profession in Nigeria is at a crossroads,” Erojikwe stated. “We must seize this opportunity to address the systemic issues that have hindered our growth and progress. By implementing visionary and progressive policies, we can reshape the legal practice landscape and position ourselves as a formidable force in the global legal arena.”
Tobenna Erojikwe’s call for a comprehensive overhaul resonated with the audience, highlighting the urgent need for reforms that will elevate the legal profession’s standards, enhance access to justice, and promote ethical practices.
The NBA-ICLE, under Tobenna Erojikwe’s leadership, has been actively advocating for positive changes within the legal profession, recognising the importance of continuous learning, collaboration, and adaptation to the ever-evolving legal landscape.
As the legal community in Nigeria grapples with these challenges, Tobenna Erojikwe’s speech has sparked discussions and renewed efforts to address the pressing issues and pave the way for a more robust and progressive legal practice framework.
