On Thursday, August 29, 2024, Mazi Afam Josiah Osigwe, SAN, Life Bencher, was sworn in as the 32nd President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) at the Lagos Continental Hotel. The inauguration ceremony marked the beginning of a new era for the NBA, as Osigwe outlined his vision and plans for the association in his inaugural speech.

In his address, Osigwe expressed his gratitude to the members of the NBA for entrusting him with the enormous responsibility and honour of serving as their President. He acknowledged the challenges facing the nation and the legal profession, emphasizing the critical role of legal practitioners in effecting positive change and upholding the principles of justice, equity, and fairness.

Osigwe announced a comprehensive agenda for a proactive Bar, which includes addressing the recurrent delay in the issuance of NBA Stamp and Seal, introducing the NBA Digital Signature, and proposing amendments to the NBA Constitution to address various issues. He also highlighted the need for quarterly reviews of appellate courts’ decisions, justice sector reforms, and ensuring compliance with the Continuing Professional Development Programme.

The new NBA President also pledged to establish various committees to tackle specific issues, such as monitoring local governments, protecting legal businesses from encroachment by non-legal practitioners, and ensuring the protection of lawyers from harassment by law enforcement agents. Osigwe further emphasized the importance of upholding the highest standards of ethics and professionalism in the legal profession.

In his commitment to consolidating the efforts of previous NBA administrations, Osigwe acknowledged the significant contributions of his predecessors and expressed his determination to build upon their legacy. He extended his appreciation to his family, colleagues, and campaign team for their unwavering support throughout his journey to the presidency.

Osigwe concluded his speech by quoting Nelson Mandela, stating, “It always seems impossible until it is done.” He called upon the members of the NBA to approach their tasks with this mindset, emphasizing that with collective resolve, they can overcome any challenge and achieve greatness for the association and the nation.