As we draw the curtains on this year’s Annual General Conference I extend my heartfelt appreciation, on behalf of the wonderful members of the AGCPC, for your robust registration, vibrant participation and invaluable contributions throughout this extraordinary event.
We thank you for defying the odds to keep the faith with our yearly gathering. We do not take your coming for granted. To our distinguished panellists, your expertise, thought-provoking insights and deep-dive into pressing legal, national, and security issues sparked meaningful discussions, setting the stage for future innovation and action and a solid foundation for legal reform and advancements in our nation. Thank you.
I owe a personal debt of gratitude to many who worked tirelessly behind the scenes – the event planner, our volunteers and security personnel, and the huge workforce of vendors engaged to service this humongous conference. Watching you all transform a bare ground into a world class conference arena, was nothing short of magical. Your efforts have elevated this conference to new heights. Thank you.
As I look back on the conference and reflect on its highlights like the world class football and individual sports competitions, to the thoroughly enjoyable Health Walk through downtown Lagos Island, pointing out various landmarks and areas of historical significance, to planting and naming trees; to the spiritual moments shared during the Jummat prayer and Thanksgiving service, and the grand and star-studded Opening Ceremony with the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Alhaji Kashim Shettima representing the President and declaring the conference open, and Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala,GCON delivering the Keynote Address; to the Opening Plenary with the former President of Ghana, the Senate President and female Bank MDs; to the thought provoking Dinner speech by Hon. Justice Amina Augie, JSC (Rtd.) to the beautiful Exhibition Hub and Friendship Centre, spacious and well laid out Food Court with abundant lunch that was still being served as late as 5pm to the Fantastic! Wow! Lit! unBARred– I could go on and on!
Personal highs for me were the largely clement weather, the almost total lack of traffic and the superb security arrangements day and night. Truly, to the glory of God, it was the conference like no other! that we promised and set out to deliver and I can only say thank you Lord.
For all the lapses, miscommunications and mishaps, I extend my sincerest apologies and take full responsibility for them. It was not for want, but rather in spite of proper planning. In the words commonly attributed to Winston Churchill – “success is final and failure is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that counts”. In the face of some difficult situations, we braved on and we are grateful to God for the successful outcome.
I am grateful to Mr. President, Y.C. Maikyau, OON, SAN for the trust reposed in me to head an all women led team, and members in this important flagship committee. It is especially humbling that I am the first woman to do so in 14 years. I am even more grateful to God for the opportunity to enjoy His grace, mercy and favour in our planning of this wonderful conference. This is an experience I will always treasure. I say, thank you sir.
For all the feedback we received, we say thank you and please keep them coming. Please click the link to fill the Conference feedback form https://bit.ly/4e0Y5ER the AGCPC would be grateful to hear from you so that we can include your recommendations in our Conference Report to be submitted to NEC.
All that remains is for me to wish you the best of the rest of your time in Lagos and safe travels back to your homes.
God bless the NBA and God bless you all in your various endeavours.
Warm regards,
Mrs. Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya
Chair, 2024 NBA AGCPC
