Good afternoon learned Silks, Senior Colleagues and distinguished colleagues.

It is with great honour and enthusiasm that I welcome you to our monthly meeting, and a special acknowledgement to those who have travelled from a far to be here with us.

First and foremost, I would like to extend the NBA's warmest congratulations to our esteemed host, Professor Adekilekun Mubaraq Tijani on his recent achievement of his inaugural lecture delivered at the University of Ilorin, delivering an inaugural lecture is no small feat, and we are all incredibly proud of you. Your dedication to the legal profession and academia continues to inspire us all. Thank you for making us proud with such distinction.

Today marks a significant milestone as we gather for our first meeting in the year 2025, and notably, our first meeting outside the NBA House under this administration. This transition reflects our commitment to exploring new venues and embracing opportunities for growth and collaboration. I believe this change will foster a more engaging and inclusive atmosphere for our discussions and initiatives.

APOLOGIES:- Oga John Bayeishea, SAN sent his apologies.

HOSTING OF NBA MEETINGS AT THE HOST'S HOUSE

When the notice of this meeting was sent out which indicated that the meeting would be hosted by Prof. Adekilekun in his residence, the notice was strange to many people particularly, our colleagues that are below 10 years post-call. It is important to recognize that the tradition of hosting NBA meetings outside the Bar Secretariat is not a new concept. During Chief Balogun's administration, many meetings were held in the homes of host members, and this practice was also embraced by the General Secretary, Dr. Mobolaji Ojibara during his tenure. We believe that this idea fosters unity and fraternity among our members, allowing for more intimate discussions and collaboration.

I have the privilege to inform our esteemed members that, the next meeting is to be hosted by a past Chairman of the Branch and current Vice Chancellor of Better by far University, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN. It is our hope that this tradition will continue, enhancing good relationships within our Bar community.

MOVE TO UNITE THE BAR

As we reflect on our goals and aspirations for the Nigerian Bar Association, I would like to emphasize the importance of unity within our ranks. This present Executive has initiated a commendable move to unite the Bar, fostering a spirit of collaboration and camaraderie among all members. This effort is vital for strengthening our association and ensuring that we stand together as one unified body.

I would also like to take a moment to recognize and appreciate the contributions of our past Chairmen of this branch, (Sir J. S. Bamigboye, SAN, Chief R. O. Balogun, SAN, Manzuma Isa Esq, MAI Akande Esq, and Abdulganiyu Bello) for their roles played to unite this branch. I will be ingrate if I fail to appreciate some of our bar leaders for their roles in the struggle to unite the bar. Their leadership and dedication have laid the foundation for the collaborative culture we aspire to achieve today. I thank Chief PAO Olunnishola, Prof Yusuf Olaolu Ali, SAN, Oga Y. K. Saad, Oga John Baiyeshea, SAN, Chief Ashaolu, SAN, H.O. Buhari, Akin Akintoye II, SAN, Oga A. A. Ibrahim, Prof Abikan, Mama Toun Olorunmaiye, mni, Chairman CLASFON and people that I cannot mention because of time. Each of them has played a pivotal role in promoting unity and fostering a sense of belonging among our members, and we owe them a great deal of gratitude for their tireless efforts.

As we come together in this new year, let us embrace the spirit of harmony that Ilorin Bar is known for. Together, we can build a robust and cohesive Bar that supports one another and champions the causes of justice and legal excellence. Let us unite not just in name but in our actions, working hand in hand to uplift our profession and serve our communities effectively. Together, we are stronger, and together we can achieve great things for the Nigerian Bar Association. Thank you for your commitment to this vision of unity and collaboration.

REVIEW OF THE 2024 DINNER

We had a wonderful gathering at our 2024 Dinner which was in honour of Asiwaju Awomolo, SAN, and while it was a success, we identified several suggestions and observations that were brought to our attention. It is essential that we take these into consideration as we plan for our next dinner, ensuring that we learn from our experiences and continually improve our events for the benefit of all members.

PRODUCTION OF 2025 DIARIES

Traditionally, the production of our diaries is managed by the Dinner Committee. However, due to insufficient funds left over after the dinner, the Dinner Committee could not be able to produce the Diaries as souvenirs for members. In order to keep the tradition of the Ilorin bar and to attend to the yearnings of our members on the production of the NBA Diaries, this prompted the Executive to reach out to some of our bar leaders for financial assistance. I would like on behalf of the Bar to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our learned silks, Lukman Fagbemi, SAN, and Abdulsalam Yunus, SAN for their generous contributions towards the production of 2024 NBA Diaries. The kind gesture of these learned silks along with leftovers by the Dinner Committee helped to produce the 2025 NBA diaries.

WELFARE OF MEMBERS

As we navigate through the challenges posed by the current economic landscape, the present administration is committed to prioritizing the welfare of our members. We understand that many of our colleagues are facing difficulties, and to that end, we have devised a plan to assist them during this trying time.

One of our key initiatives is to provide essential commodities at subsidised prices for our members. This approach aims to alleviate some of the financial burdens our members may be experiencing. The Welfare Committee is currently working to finalise the procedures for this initiative, and we will ensure that all details are communicated effectively to everyone. Our goal is to create a supportive environment where members can access the resources they need to thrive.

We want to appeal to our Seniors that, we will reach out to you for financial assistance towards this laudable project. This is another way of giving back to society from the bounty of God on us.

BREACH OF ETHICS OF THE PROFESSION BY MEMBERS

In addition to our welfare initiatives, I must address an important concern regarding the ethical standards of our profession. We have observed a significant increase in petitions lodged against lawyers. It is imperative that we all remain vigilant and conscious of our names and reputations within the legal community. Upholding the highest ethical standards is not only a personal responsibility but a collective duty.

I would like to remind everyone that branches do not have the authority to handle disciplinary matters concerning lawyers. All petitions must be directed to the Legal Practitioners’ Disciplinary Committee (LPDC). It is crucial that we maintain the integrity of our profession by adhering to the established protocols and ensuring that any concerns are dealt with appropriately.

Let us all commit to upholding the values and ethics of our profession, not only for our own benefit but for the reputation of the Nigerian Bar Association as a whole. Together, we can foster a culture of professionalism and integrity that reflects the true spirit of our legal community.

LAND INSTRUMENT POLICY (LIP)

The report from the Treasurer who is in charge of land Instrument implementation that, transactions made through GTBank often experience reversals, resulting in unnecessary delays and complications. To avoid these issues, we kindly request all members to refrain from making payments into the NBA account via GTBank. Please use alternative banks or payment channels that ensure the smooth processing of transactions.

We also notice that, there are long payments into the NBA Account without claiming. Members are hereby reminded to promptly notify the NBA of any funds lodged into the NBA Land Instrument account on behalf of their clients. This notification should be made within two weeks of the payment date, to allow for confirmation and proper reconciliation. Your cooperation in this regard will help us maintain accurate financial records and efficient service delivery. We sincerely appreciate your understanding and adherence to these instructions. Let us continue working together to uphold the standards of our association.

TRIBUTE TO OUR DEPARTED HEROES

With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we mourn the passing of three esteemed members of our branch, whose contributions, dedication, and legacies continue to inspire us all. Their departure represents an irreplaceable loss not only to their families but also to the legal profession and the wider community they so selflessly served.

The death of our distinguished past Chairman, Alhaji Saka Abimbola Isau who died on 4th January, 2025 is a loss that resonates deeply within our hearts. Alhaji Isau was not only a leader but a unifying force within our branch, leading with wisdom, humility, and a relentless dedication to the advancement of the legal profession.

We also bid farewell to Abdulwasiu Yusuf who until his death a staff of the Local Government Service Commission who died on 17th January, 2025 and S. B. Ajao, a retired officer of the Ministry of Justice who died on 23rd January, 2025.

May Allah, in His infinite mercy, forgive their shortcomings, grant them Al-Jannah Firdaus, and reward them for the immense good they imparted in this life. To Allah we belong, and to Him we shall return. Let us keep them in our prayers and strive to emulate their shining examples in our personal and professional lives.

WORKSHOP ON RULES OF RPC 2023

The NBA in collaboration with the Rule of Law and Anti-Curruption (RoLaC) is organising a 2-days sensitization workshop which is specifically meant for branch Chairmen and YLF Chairmen. The workshop is aimed at fostering awareness and understanding of the 2023 Rules of Professional Conduct (RPC) for legal Practitioners. The workshop is slated for 2nd to 5th February, 2025 in Abuja. YLF Chairman and I will be in attendance by God’s grace.

NEC MEETING

The National Executive Meeting of NBA is slated to hold between 5th and 8th February, 2025 at Akure, Ondo State. In shaha Allahu, we shall be in attendance.

CONCLUSION

As we embark on this new year, I invite all members to reflect on the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. Together, let us pray for an abundance of blessings, success, and prosperity for each one of us. May we continue to support one another and work collaboratively, harnessing our collective knowledge and expertise to advance our profession and serve our communities better.

Let us strive to make 2025 a year filled with accomplishments and goodwill, not only for ourselves but for the legal fraternity and society at large. I wish you all a prosperous year ahead and the many good things to come for all members of the Nigerian Bar Association.

Thank you all for being here today, for your dedication, and for your unwavering commitment to excellence in our profession. Let’s make this meeting a productive and enriching experience.

SMH Kosemani Esq
Chairman.