PROTOCOL

OPENING REMARKS

Good evening, and welcome to the 2025 Annual Dinner and Award Night of the Nigerian Bar Association, Ilorin Branch. It is with immense joy and profound gratitude to the Almighty God that I stand before you this evening to welcome you all to this prestigious and historic occasion.

This gathering represents the culmination of months of meticulous planning and preparation by both the Executive Committee and Dinner committees of our Branch. Tonight is not just about celebration; it is about recognition, appreciation, and reaffirmation of our collective commitment to the ideals of justice, excellence, and service that define the legal profession.

THE ILORIN BRANCH: A PILLAR OF LEGAL EXCELLENCE

The Nigerian Bar Association, Ilorin Branch, has consistently maintained its position as one of the most vibrant, progressive, and influential branch of the NBA in Nigeria. Our Branch has a rich history of producing legal luminaries, judges, senior advocates, attorneys general, and other distinguished legal practitioners who have made indelible marks in the administration of justice, both within and beyond Kwara state.

Throughout this year, our Branch has remained steadfast in its commitment to upholding the rule of law, promoting access to justice, and defending the rights and liberties of citizens. We have consistently spoken truth to power, intervened in matters of public interest, and provided leadership on critical legal and constitutional issues affecting our society.

UPHOLDING THE RULE OF LAW: OUR SACRED DUTY

As lawyers, we are the custodians of the rule of law. This is not merely a professional responsibility; it is a sacred duty that we owe to our nation and to posterity. The rule of law is the bedrock upon which democracy, human rights, and sustainable development rest. Without it, there can be no justice, no equity, and no peace.

This year, the Nigerian Bar Association, Ilorin Branch, has undertaken several initiatives and interventions to uphold the rule of law and strengthen our justice system such as Legal Aid and Pro Bono Services, Advocacy and Public Interest Litigation, Judicial Independence, Continuing Legal Education, and Collaboration with Security Agencies. These efforts and many more demonstrate our unwavering commitment to the rule of law and the advancement of justice in our society. We will not relent in this sacred duty, for we know that the future of our nation depends on it.

THIS YEAR'S DINNER: IN HONOUR OF A DISTINGUISHED SON OF ILORIN

Ladies and gentlemen, this year's Annual Dinner and Award Night holds special significance. It is dedicated in honour of a distinguished son of Kwara State, a patriot, a philanthropist, and a true friend of the Ilorin Bar - Senator Saliu Mustapha, CFR, the Turaki of Ilorin Emirate.

The decision to honour Senator Saliu Mustapha was not made lightly. It was borne out of deep appreciation for his consistent show of love to the Ilorin Bar and his unwavering support for the welfare of our members. Senator Mustapha has, on numerous occasions, demonstrated that he is not just a political leader but also a compassionate individual who cares deeply about the legal profession and the well-being of lawyers in Kwara State.

His contributions to our Branch have been both tangible and impactful. He has supported our programs, assisted members in times of need, and consistently made himself available whenever we called upon him. His humility, accessibility, and genuine concern for our welfare have endeared him to every member of this Branch.

Tonight, we say thank you, Senator Saliu Mustapha. Thank you for believing in us. Thank you for supporting us. Thank you for being a friend of the Bar.

THE NBA ILORIN ROLL OF HONOUR (HONOURARY MEMBERSHIP)

In recognition of this exceptional contributions and support by the honouree of today, the branch are proud to confer on him the NBA Ilorin Roll of Honour, Honourary Membership. This is the highest recognition that our Branch can bestow on a non-lawyer, and it is reserved for individuals who have distinguished themselves through exceptional service to the legal profession and unwavering support for the Ilorin Bar.

Today Senator Mustapha will join an exclusive list of illustrious Nigerians who have been decorated with this prestigious honour. Past recipients of the NBA Ilorin Roll of Honour include:

His Excellency, Senator Abubakar Bukola Saraki, CON - Former Senate President and Former Governor of Kwara State, His Excellency, Dr. Mohammed Alabi Lawal - Former Governor of Kwara State, His Excellency, Dr. Kayode Fayemi - Former Governor of Ekiti State and Former Minister, Alhaji Lai Biodun Mohammed (Lubcon), and Alhaji Kamaldeen Ajibade (KAM Wire)

These distinguished individuals have one thing in common: they have all demonstrated exceptional love for the legal profession and have supported the Ilorin Bar in various ways. Tonight, Senator Saliu Mustapha takes his rightful place among these great men.

RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE: TONIGHT'S AWARDEES

This evening, we will also be presenting awards to other deserving individuals who have distinguished themselves in various fields. We will be honoring, Hon. Justice Hannah Ajayi (Rtd.) for her meritorious service to the Kwara State Judiciary, Lukman Fagbemi, SAN Yunus Abdulsalam, SAN for their exceptional support to the Ilorin Bar. Officer Gazaly O. Shafiu, the OC Monitoring, Kwara State Police Command for his exemplary service and friendship to the Bar, Alhaji Tajudeen Ajibola Ibrahim Eletu for his philanthropic work in providing solar lights to communities. To all our awardees, we say congratulations. Your hard work, dedication, and contributions to society have not gone unnoticed. You are truly deserving of these honours.

APPRECIATION

This event would not have been possible without the support and dedication of many individuals and organizations. I wish to express my profound gratitude to the Planning and Organizing Committee ably led by Prof. Azeezat Amoloye-Adebayo as Chairman, Dr. Mahmud Abdulraheem as Alternate Chairman, Yemi Shittu as Secretary and other members of the committee for your tireless efforts. Members of my Executive Committee for your leadership and cooperation. All members of the NBA Ilorin Branch for their continued support and commitment. Special appreciation goes to our invited guests, particularly those who have traveled from far and near to grace this occasion. Your presence adds immense value to this event, and we are truly honored by your attendance.

CONCLUSION

As we dine, network, and celebrate tonight, let us remember that we are not just lawyers; we are nation-builders, defenders of justice, and champions of the rule of law. Let us rededicate ourselves to the service of our profession, our community, and our nation. The Nigerian Bar Association, Ilorin Branch, remains committed to excellence, integrity, and service. We will continue to uphold the rule of law, promote justice, and support the welfare of our members.

Once again, welcome to the 2025 NBA Ilorin Annual Dinner and Award Night. I wish you all a pleasant and memorable evening.

Thank you, and God bless you all.