The Nigerian Bar Association Women Forum (NBAWF) Annual Conference commenced with a wave of anticipation and resolve as leading legal minds, distinguished delegates, and gender advocates gathered in the heart of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. With the theme “From Promise to Action: Achieving Gender Parity for Lasting Change,” the 2025 edition of the conference set the tone for meaningful discourse and decisive steps toward bridging gender gaps within the legal profession and beyond.
Among the early goodwill messages was a compelling address from Lateef Omoyemi Akangbe, SAN, FCIArb (UK), former Chairman of the NBA Lagos Branch. He lauded the efforts of the Conference Planning Committee and commended the forum for its bold commitment to transforming conversations around gender equity into practical solutions. His message struck a powerful chord, emphasizing the urgency of shifting from rhetoric to results in the collective quest for inclusive justice and lasting societal change.
Read full statement below;
WELCOME AMAZONS AND DELEGATES
I extend warm and heartfelt felicitations to the Chairperson, Conference Planning Committee, distinguished members, and delegates at the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Women Forum Annual Conference holding in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
The theme of this year’s Conference—“From Promise to Action: Achieving Gender Parity for Lasting Change”—is timely, thoughtful, and necessary. It speaks to a call that must no longer be delayed, a promise that must now be fulfilled with resolute action and unwavering commitment.
Gender parity is not merely a slogan; it is essential for the just, equitable, and progressive society we all aspire to build. As lawyers and custodians of justice, it falls on us to dismantle the barriers that hinder full inclusion and to create spaces where the talents, leadership, and contributions of women are recognized, valued, and empowered.
This Conference offers a unique opportunity—not just to speak about change, but to strategize, collaborate, and drive meaningful action that will outlive our generation.
I commend the Nigerian Bar Association Women Forum and its Conference Planning Committee for leading this charge with such purpose and courage. May this gathering inspire transformative conversations and lay concrete steps toward achieving true gender parity.
I wish you all a fruitful, impactful, and memorable Conference.
LATEEF OMOYEMI AKANGBE, SAN, FCIArb (UK)
Former Chairman, NBA Lagos Branch.
