These timely words from Rotimi Ogunyemi at the 4th panel session of the ongoing Nigerian Bar Association Lagos Annual Law Conference on the topic “Innovation & the Evolving Legal Landscape” held at MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos on June 16, 2025, captured the heartbeat of the legal profession’s current dilemma. As the world races into an era dominated by Artificial Intelligence, digital tools, and automation, the legal industry is no exception. This year’s conference has provided a platform for lawyers, innovators, and thought leaders to explore how the profession can innovate, stay relevant, and thrive in a fast-changing environment.
Dr. Ajibade rightly pointed out that technology, if properly harnessed, can make lawyers’ work easier. From automating legal research to streamlining documentation and improving case management, the potential is immense. However, it requires a shift in mindset. Lawyers must begin to see technology not as a threat, but as an ally in boosting productivity and improving service delivery. The challenge is no longer whether to use technology, but how to effectively integrate it into daily practice.
Adding another layer to the conversation, Oktay Curebai, CEO of Fifty2 emphasized that “technology is an enabler; we use technology as a co-pilot, not the captain.” This simple analogy highlights the importance of human judgment and ethical considerations in legal practice. Technology can aid, but it should not replace the critical thinking, empathy, and reasoning that lawyers bring to the table. The future belongs to legal professionals who can strategically balance technological tools with core legal values.
Chike Obianwu’s input added a sobering reality, AI is reshaping the way legal services are consumed. As clients turn to AI for quick and affordable legal support, the demand for traditional legal roles is shifting. This doesn’t spell doom for the profession; rather, it’s a call for lawyers to adapt. From offering advisory services rooted in human insight to focusing on complex litigation and policy-making, lawyers must reimagine their roles in an AI-assisted world.
Sam Brown provided a hopeful perspective, noting that AI has the potential to increase access to justice. By creating efficient systems, reducing case backlogs, and offering low-cost legal aid, technology can play a significant role in reforming the justice system. However, it must be deployed thoughtfully to avoid reinforcing existing delays and barriers. In all, panelists served as a wake-up call that lawyers must not only embrace innovation but also actively shape the future of law in Nigeria.
Panelists in this session were Chike Obianwu, SAN (Deputy Managing Partner, Templars), Rotimi Ogunyemi (Managing Partner, BOC legal), Sam Brown (Partner at Clifford Chance), Oktay Curebal (CEO of Fifty2). The Panel was Chaired by Dr Babatunde Ajibade, SAN (Partner, S.P.A Ajibade & Co.) and the session Coordinator was Mrs Abiye Tam-George (Member Programme and Content Sub-committee, Conference Planning Committee).
