Former Chairman of the NBA Lagos Branch, Lateef Omoyemi Akangbe, SAN, has extended warm felicitations to the Nigerian Bar Association, Gboko Branch, as it marks its 2025 Annual Law Week. In a goodwill message, Akangbe praised the Branch’s choice of theme—“Modernising Legal Practice as a Catalyst for Nation Building: Prospects and Challenges”—describing it as both timely and crucial in driving the legal profession toward global relevance and innovation.
He emphasized the growing importance of technology in the legal landscape, noting how tools such as e-filing systems, virtual court hearings, and AI-driven legal research are revolutionizing the justice system. While acknowledging the opportunities these innovations bring, Akangbe also highlighted pressing concerns around cybersecurity, ethical standards, and regulatory frameworks. He commended the Gboko Branch for fostering dialogue on these critical issues and expressed confidence in the Law Week’s capacity to shape the future of legal practice in Nigeria.
Read full statement below;
I extend hearty felicitations to the Chairman, Executive Members, Planning Committee, and the entire membership of the Nigerian Bar Association, Gboko Branch, on the occasion of your 2025 Annual Law Week themed “Modernising Legal Practice as a Catalyst for Nation Building: Prospects and Challenges.”
This timely and relevant theme resonates with the urgent need to reposition the legal profession in line with global best practices, particularly through technology and innovation. Today, the digitisation of court processes – e-filing, virtual hearings, and digital case management systems – has enhanced access to justice and improved procedural efficiency. AI-driven legal research is reshaping legal research, while blockchain and smart contracts are redefining commercial law practice.
These advances offer great prospects but also present challenges around cybersecurity, regulatory adaptation, and legal ethics. As legal practitioners, we must not only embrace these tools but also help shape the laws that govern them – ensuring they serve justice, equity, and national development.
I commend the Gboko Branch for placing this critical conversation at the heart of your Law Week. I have no doubt the insights shared here will contribute meaningfully to the ongoing evolution of our profession and, by extension, our nation.
Wishing you a successful, impactful, and inspiring celebration.
Warm regards,
LATEEF OMOYEMI AKANGBE SAN, FCIArb(UK)
Former Chairman, NBA Lagos Branch
