A former Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Lagos Branch, Mr. Lateef Omoyemi Akangbe, SAN, FCIArb (UK), has underscored the urgent need for renewed commitment to integrity within Nigeria’s justice sector. He made this call while reflecting on his participation at the 22nd Gani Fawehinmi Annual Lecture, organised by the NBA Ikeja Branch, where critical issues affecting the legal profession and the justice delivery system were extensively discussed.
The annual lecture, themed “Integrity Deficiency in the Justice Sector: Whither the Legal Profession?”, served as a forum for robust engagement among members of the Bar on the present realities and future direction of legal practice in Nigeria. The event also provided an opportunity to honour the legacy of the late Chief Gani Fawehinmi, SAN, whose lifelong dedication to justice, accountability and the rule of law continues to inspire calls for a more principled, credible and impactful Nigerian Bar.
Read full statement below;
I had the honour and privilege of attending the 22nd Gani Fawehinmi Annual Lecture, organised by the Nigerian Bar Association, Ikeja Branch.
The theme — “Integrity Deficiency in the Justice Sector: Whither the Legal Profession?” — provided an important platform to engage meaningfully with members of the Bar, reflect on the present state of our justice system, and collectively examine the future of legal practice in Nigeria.
It was a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas, interrogate perspectives, and reaffirm our commitment to the core values of integrity, courage, and service that define the legal profession. Above all, it was an occasion to honour the enduring legacy of Chief Gani Fawehinmi, SAN — a fearless advocate of justice, accountability, and the rule of law.
I remain grateful for the robust conversations, collegial engagement, and shared resolve towards strengthening our profession and repositioning the Nigerian Bar for greater relevance, credibility, and impact.
Together, we must continue to build a Bar that is principled, progressive, and worthy of public trust.
Lateef Omoyemi Akangbe, SAN, FCIArb (UK) Former Chairman, NBA Lagos Branch
