The African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA) Nigeria on 27th August, 2024 had this year’s Parley titled “Digital Advocacy: Leveraging Technology for Inclusion.” The gathering centered on the crucial role of technology in fostering inclusivity within the legal profession, drawing attention to how digital tools can bridge gaps in access to legal services, particularly for women and underserved communities.
Caroline Ibharuneafe, President of AWLA Nigeria, opened the event by emphasizing the need for the legal profession to embrace digital advocacy. She noted that leveraging technology is vital for enhancing accessibility and ensuring that legal services reach marginalized groups. Bibian Aloba, Chairperson of the AWLA Nigeria Parley Committee 2024, further highlighted the transformative power of digital platforms in reshaping the legal field, presenting innovative strategies to drive social change.
A key highlight of the event was the keynote address delivered by Edna Agusto, Founder of ReadManna Empowerment Initiative, and Pastor Ituah Ighodalo , Chairman of the Parley. Their presentation on “Digital Advocacy: Leveraging Technology for Inclusion” set the tone for the discussions. They explored how female lawyers can harness technology for greater inclusion, and emphasized the potential of digital platforms in improving access to legal services for marginalized communities.
The event also featured contributions from prominent legal professionals, including Rotimi Ogunyemi, Partner at Johnson & Wilner | BOC Legal; Abimo Olayiwola, Principal Partner at ABILEGAL Barristers & Solicitors and Founder of Digital Lawyers’ Network; and Dr. Grace Ajaegbo, Assistant Director of the Legal Services Department at the Rivers State House of Assembly. These speakers underscored the growing importance of digital literacy in the legal profession and the ethical considerations surrounding online legal practice.
Discussions during the event also touched on the potential of social media as a powerful tool for legal advocacy. The speakers highlighted the need for lawyers to adapt to the rapidly evolving technological landscape and integrate digital tools into their practice to enhance their effectiveness and reach.
The event concluded with an emphasis on the strategic use of technological advancements to foster inclusivity within the legal profession. Additionally, awards were presented to past Presidents of AWLA Nigeria, recognizing their contributions to the association and the legal field such as; Hon. Justice L.A.M. Folami, His Worship Roseline Etuagie Akinbo (RTD) FICMC, Princess Aderonke Sijuwade, His Worship Nihinlolawa Aluko-Olokun, Mrs. Amanda Demechi-Asagba and Mrs. Efe Etomi,.
The event, attended by several dignitaries including; Hon Justice Bolanle Awoyomi, His Worship Roseline Etuagie Akinbo (RTD), His Worship Nihinlolawa Aluko-Olokun, His Worship Christiana Dosumu (RTD), His Worship Mrs Aramide Adekunle -Fatokun(RTD) and His Worship Grace Ibidapo took place at the NIA Building, located at 42 Saka Tinubu Street, Victoria Island, Lagos.
