In a captivating address during the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Port Harcourt Monthly Branch Meeting, Tobenna Erojikwe, the Chairman of the Governing Council of the NBA Institute of Continuing Legal Education (NBA-ICLE), delivered an insightful speech on “Structuring for Growth” within the Nigerian legal profession. Erojikwe’s thought-provoking remarks resonated with the legal community, emphasising the need for a comprehensive restructuring of the overarching framework governing the practice of law in Nigeria.
Erojikwe highlighted the importance of adapting to the evolving landscape of the legal profession, driven by factors such as globalisation, technological advancements, and shifting societal dynamics. He underscored the urgency of passing the Legal Practitioners Bill, a crucial step towards aligning the legal practice framework with these new realities.
“The Nigerian legal profession is at a pivotal juncture,” Erojikwe stated. “To achieve sustainable growth, we must embrace structural reforms that reflect the demands of the modern era. The Legal Practitioners Bill presents an opportunity to fortify our regulatory framework, fostering innovation, enhancing competitiveness, and promoting ethical practices.”
Erojikwe’s vision for “Structuring for Growth” encompassed various aspects, including the establishment of robust mechanisms for continuous professional development, leveraging technology to streamline legal services, and fostering collaboration with international legal entities. He also emphasised the need to build competence within the Nigerian legal profession to reshore legal work that is currently outsourced to foreign law firms.
“We possess immense talent and expertise within our ranks,” Erojikwe asserted. “By investing in capacity building and creating an enabling environment, we can reclaim our rightful place as the preferred choice for legal services in Nigeria. This will not only strengthen our profession but also contribute to the growth of our nation’s economy.”
Erojikwe’s impassioned call for structural reforms resonated deeply with the attendees, sparking discussions and igniting a renewed commitment to embrace change. As a thought leader in the legal community, his advocacy for visionary policies and progressive strategies has garnered widespread support, paving the way for a more resilient and future-ready legal profession in Nigeria.
The NBA-ICLE, under Erojikwe’s stewardship, continues to play a pivotal role in championing legal education, fostering collaboration, and driving positive transformation within the Nigerian legal landscape. As the legal community grapples with the challenges of the modern era, Erojikwe’s vision for “Structuring for Growth” serves as a beacon, guiding the profession towards a more prosperous and impactful future.
