NBA Section to Unveil National Digital Lawyer’s Directory

The Nigerian Bar Association Section on Legal Practice (NBA-SLP) is set to launch a comprehensive national law directory, a first-of-its-kind initiative aimed at improving access, visibility, and structure within Nigeria’s legal profession.

Mrs Folashade Alli (SAN), Chairperson of the section, announced the initiative during a pre-conference briefing in Lagos on Thursday. She stated that the verified, centralised database, which has already attracted over 2,600 registered lawyers, will enable individuals and organisations to easily identify legal practitioners based on their areas of expertise.

“Visibility is key. We are creating a platform where individuals and organisations can easily identify and contact lawyers based on their areas of expertise,” Alli said.

She described the directory as a legacy project designed to strengthen the structure of legal practice in Nigeria and enhance professional connectivity nationwide.

The initiative coincides with the section’s annual conference, themed “Evolving Trends: Nigerian Legal Practice, Global Perspective.” Alli noted that the conference aims to deliver practical solutions to challenges facing the profession, moving beyond routine discussions.

“This is not just about networking; it is about learning, improving, and adapting to a globalised legal environment shaped by innovation and technology,” she said.

A significant focus of the conference is on early-career practitioners. A specialised training session for 100 young lawyers, focusing on emerging trends and global developments, has reached full physical attendance capacity, though virtual participation remains open.

“Young lawyers are the future of the legal profession, and we must equip them with the tools they need to thrive,” Alli added.

Approximately 2,000 lawyers are expected to attend the event, which will feature plenary sessions, fireside chats, and technical discussions. Topics will include ethics, arbitration, taxation, and the impact of technology on legal practice. Speakers include jurists from Nigeria, Ghana, and the United Kingdom.

Conference Planning Committee Co-Chairman, Mr Kelechi Obi (SAN), emphasised the practical orientation of the sessions. “We have gone beyond the stage of mere talk. The sessions are practical and designed to impact how lawyers operate in real life,” he said.

Former Vice President Prof Yemi Osinbajo (SAN) is expected to lead discussions on judicial independence, while the keynote address will be delivered by Justice Olufemi Elias of the International Court of Justice.

The conference will take place at the National Theatre, Lagos, a choice Obi said reflected a shared identity of excellence between the law and the arts.

SLP Vice-Chairman, Mr Tonye Krukrubo (SAN), noted that the presence of key government officials, including the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, and the Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), would help translate discussions into actionable reforms.

Conference Planning Committee Chairman, Mrs Abimbola Akeredolu (SAN), assured that adequate security and traffic management plans have been put in place for the event. Participants will also earn Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points.