The Chairman of the 2026 Nigerian Bar Association Annual General Conference Planning Committee, Abdul Mohammed Rafindadi, SAN, has welcomed delegates to Port Harcourt for the 2026 NBA Annual General Conference, describing the gathering as the fulfilment of a promise made to host the conference in the Rivers State capital. Rafindadi recalled that the commitment was made during the inaugural address of NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, in 2024, but was deferred following the declaration of a State of Emergency last year. He said the 2026 conference represents the fulfilment of that commitment.
Speaking on the conference theme, “Beyond Limits,” Rafindadi said the theme reflects the belief that perceived barriers can be overcome and that Nigerians and Africans possess limitless potential. Drawing from the famous Matrix line, “There is no spoon,” he argued that many limitations exist primarily in the mind, urging delegates to leave Port Harcourt with renewed confidence that obstacles should not stand in the way of their aspirations.
The AGC Chairman also highlighted the lives of the conference’s distinguished personalities as examples of the “Beyond Limits” philosophy. He pointed to the over 1,000-year-old Al-Kanemi Dynasty and the journey of keynote speaker and former Liberian President George Weah, whose rise from the streets of Monrovia to becoming an internationally celebrated footballer and later President of Liberia, despite electoral defeat and educational setbacks, exemplifies the breaking of barriers. Rafindadi expressed confidence that Weah’s keynote address would inspire participants to overcome perceived obstacles.
With more than 200 speakers and over 24,000 registered participants at the time of his address, Rafindadi urged delegates to maximise the conference beyond its technical sessions by exchanging ideas, building professional networks and establishing lasting relationships. He described the conference as a unique opportunity for lawyers to interact with colleagues from across the profession, stressing the value of networking alongside the intellectual and professional engagements planned for the gathering.
Rafindadi further encouraged delegates to explore the cultural and ecological attractions of Rivers State, including Finima Nature Park, the Ogbakiri/Elele Wetlands and the elephant habitat in Andoni Local Government Area. He expressed appreciation to the NBA leadership, members of the planning committee, sponsors, the Rivers State Government and the Local Organising Committee for their contributions to the conference, before declaring a warm welcome to delegates despite the inclement Port Harcourt weather.