NBA Endorses Legal Practitioners Act Amendment, Insists It Strengthens Bar Autonomy

The Nigerian Bar Association has formally adopted a report outlining its engagement with the National Assembly on the proposed amendment of the Legal Practitioners Act, insisting the reforms are designed to strengthen not weaken the association’s regulatory powers.

The resolution was passed during the NBA’s National Executive Council meeting held on February 5, 2026, in Maiduguri, Borno State.

Autonomy Not Under Threat

Addressing concerns that the amendment could erode the Bar’s independence, NEC clarified that the bill explicitly reinforces the NBA’s authority to regulate legal practice in Nigeria, including the issuance and renewal of practising licences.

“The proposed amendment does not weaken the NBA. Rather, it clearly and expressly reinforces the NBA’s authority to regulate legal practice in Nigeria,” the council stated in a communiqué shared via its X handle on Wednesday.

NEC noted that the association’s legislative engagement was driven by the need to align the profession with contemporary realities, including the integration of technology and artificial intelligence in legal practice.

Young Lawyers’ Welfare Takes Centre Stage

A key highlight of the proposed amendments is the inclusion of statutory provisions addressing the remuneration and economic welfare of young lawyers.

The decision followed advocacy by the NBA Young Lawyers Forum, which drew attention to persistent reports of poor pay and exploitative labour practices within the profession.

NEC agreed that embedding minimum professional standards and fair compensation in the law is critical to safeguarding professional dignity and ensuring the long-term sustainability of legal practice.

Stronger Disciplinary Framework

The council also observed that the bill seeks to expand the NBA’s representation on the Body of Benchers and strengthen its role in investigating and prosecuting professional misconduct.

According to the report presented by NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, the amendment process is the product of unprecedented collaboration involving the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and the Body of Benchers.

Osigwe described the reform as essential in an “AI age,” adding that technology has become an indispensable tool for modern legal practice.

Maiduguri Venue Symbolic

NEC commended the association’s leadership for ensuring the Bar’s voice remained prominent throughout the legislative process. Observers noted that the choice of Maiduguri for the meeting was intentional, underscoring the NBA’s resilience and solidarity with communities affected by insurgency.

“Borno State has remained indomitable in the face of insurgency. The choice of venue was intentional and meaningful,” Osigwe said.

With NEC’s formal backing, the NBA is expected to intensify engagement with lawmakers to secure smooth passage of the bill.