“There is still much work to be done to achieve true gender equality and inclusivity within the legal profession” – Mrs Chinyere Okorocha Tells Female Lawyers

Mrs. Chinyere Okorocha, Chairperson of the Nigerian Bar Association Women Forum (NBAWF), emphasized the imperative for female lawyers to intensify efforts towards achieving genuine gender equality and inclusivity within the legal profession. Speaking at the 4th Annual General Conference of the NBAWF held at the Oriental Hotel in Victoria Island, Lagos State, Mrs. Okorocha urged women in law to be steadfast in their pursuit of equity and representation.

The theme of the conference, “Beyond the Balance Sheet: Redefining Success for Women in Law,” resonated deeply with Mrs. Okorocha’s address, as she underscored the forum’s fundamental mission of empowering female lawyers for success. In her remarks, she highlighted the significance of redefining traditional notions of success to encompass broader dimensions of achievement and fulfillment within the legal field.

Against the backdrop of evolving societal norms and expectations, Mrs. Okorocha underscored the critical role of female lawyers in driving positive change and advancing the cause of gender parity. She stressed the importance of collective action and advocacy to dismantle barriers and create a more inclusive legal environment where women can thrive and excel.

The NBAWF’s Annual General Conference served as a platform for engaging dialogue and strategic collaboration among female legal professionals, with a focus on identifying opportunities for career advancement and professional development. Mrs. Okorocha’s call to action resonated strongly with attendees, inspiring renewed commitment to the shared goal of fostering greater gender equality within the legal community.

As the legal landscape continues to evolve, Mrs. Okorocha’s impassioned plea for female lawyers to push boundaries and redefine success serves as a rallying cry for continued progress and empowerment. With unwavering determination and collective effort, women in law are poised to effect transformative change and pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future within the legal profession.

Read more statement below;

WELCOME ADDRESS OF THE CHAIRPERSON NBA WOMEN FORUM, MRS. CHINYERE OKOROCHA, ON THE OCCASION OF THE 4TH ANNUAL GENERAL CONFERENCE HOLDING IN LAGOS ON 21 -22ND MARCH 2024

Dear Esteemed Members & Distinguished Guests,

On behalf of the Nigerian Bar Association Women Forum, it is my great honor and privilege to welcome you all to the 4th Annual General Conference. As Chairperson of this esteemed forum, I am deeply honoured to stand before you today as we gather under the theme, “Beyond the Balance Sheet: Redefining Success for Women in Law.”

This year’s theme underscores the core mission of our forum: to empower female lawyers for success.

We recognize that success in the legal profession goes far beyond mere financial metrics or professional accolades. It encompasses personal fulfillment, societal impact, and the ability to overcome barriers and challenges with resilience and grace.

As we convene for this pivotal conference, we are reminded of the immense strides that women have made in the legal profession, both in Nigeria and around the world. However, we also recognize that there is still much work to be done to achieve true gender equality and inclusivity within the legal profession.

During this conference, we will engage in thought-provoking discussions, insightful panel sessions, and interactive workshops aimed at exploring new frontiers in redefining success for women in law. We will delve into topics such as breaking barriers, leveraging diversity, achieving work-life integration, and empowering the next generation of female lawyers through mentorship and leadership development.

As we embark on this journey together, let us be inspired by the incredible achievements of women who have paved the way before us and empowered by the collective strength and determination of our forum. Let us seize this opportunity to connect, collaborate, and chart a course towards a future where every woman in law can thrive and succeed on her own terms.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our esteemed speakers, panelists, sponsors, and volunteers for their invaluable contributions to making this conference a reality. And to all our members and guests, thank you for your unwavering commitment to advancing the cause of women in law.

Together, let us dare to dream, dare to aspire, and dare to redefine success beyond the balance sheet.

Thank you, and welcome to the 4th Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association Women
Forum!

Warm regards,
Mrs. Chinyere Okorocha
Chairperson, Nigerian Bar Association Women Forum