NBA-SLP to tackle declining ethical standards, explore evolving trends
The Nigerian Bar Association Section on Legal Practice (NBA-SLP) is set to examine emerging trends and global perspectives shaping the future of legal practice at its 2026 Annual Conference. It
- By Udeh Onyebuchi
The Nigerian Bar Association Section on Legal Practice (NBA-SLP) is set to examine emerging trends and global perspectives shaping the future of legal practice at its 2026 Annual Conference.
It raised concerns over declining ethical standards within the profession.
Chairman of the NBA-SLP, Folashade Alli (SAN), emphasised that rebuilding ethical standards and aligning Nigerian legal practice with global developments are central to the future of the profession.
She spoke at a briefing on the NBA-SLP 2026 Annual Conference scheduled to be held from April 7 to 10 at the National Theatre, Lagos.
The conference, with the theme: “Evolving trends: Nigerian legal practice, global perspectives,” will bring together legal practitioners, policymakers and international experts to interrogate the changing dynamics of the profession.
Mrs Alli described the Section on Legal Practice as “the heartbeat of the profession,” noting that its renewed focus is to nurture young lawyers and expand legal practice beyond traditional courtroom litigation.
According to her, the opening day will feature a five-hour intensive training session for 1,000 young lawyers, facilitated by a leading Nigerian law firm.
She said the training is designed to expose participants to emerging trends, innovative practices and global standards shaping modern legal practice.
“The young lawyers are the future of the profession, and we must invest in them,” Alli said, adding that all sessions at the conference are tailored towards innovation and global relevance.
Participants from across the country are expected to converge on Lagos, with a welcome event scheduled at Terra Kulture, Victoria Island, alongside a film screening and networking session.
The conference will host both local and international speakers who will address key issues such as arbitration, taxation and the impact of technology on legal practice.
Attendees will participate in six to seven plenary sessions and two fireside chats aimed at enhancing professional development and global competitiveness.
A major highlight of the conference will be the unveiling of a comprehensive law firm directory, the first of its kind in Nigeria, designed to improve visibility and access to legal practitioners nationwide.
Alli revealed that over 2,600 law firms have already registered in the directory, which will be officially launched on April 8.
She reiterated that legal practice has evolved beyond litigation, incorporating diverse specialisations that require continuous learning and adaptation.
“We are building on the legacy of those before us while ensuring that the SLP evolves with global standards. This conference reflects our commitment to innovation, excellence and the future of the profession,” she added.
Co-Chairman of the Conference Planning Committee, Kelechi Obi (SAN), said the theme reflects the need for Nigerian lawyers to align with global developments, noting that legal practice has become increasingly dynamic and multidisciplinary.
Vice Chairman of NBA-SLP, Tonye Krukrubo (SAN), said physical attendance is nearing capacity, while virtual participation remains open, particularly for young lawyers.
He highlighted key sessions, including a fireside chat featuring former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, to be moderated by Yinka Omorogbe (SAN), focusing on judicial independence, financial autonomy and strengthening the rule of law.
Krukrubo added that discussions will also address practical issues such as garnishee proceedings, with a view to producing resolutions that can drive reforms within the justice system.
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Chairman of the Conference Planning Committee, Abimbola Akeredolu (SAN), assured participants of seamless logistics, noting that arrangements have been made with the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) and security agencies to ensure smooth vehicular movement and safety during the event.
International lawyer Charles Ayodeji Adeogun-Phillips (SAN) stressed the importance of exploring emerging areas such as public international law, urging practitioners to take advantage of opportunities in global legal practice.
He noted that Nigerian jurists have historically played significant roles in international courts and called for greater awareness and participation among lawyers.
The NBA-SLP conference is expected to attract leading figures in the legal profession, including the Chief Justice of Nigeria, the Attorney-General of the Federation and other distinguished jurists.
Organisers said the event will serve not only as a platform for networking but also as a catalyst for reform, innovation and the strengthening of ethical standards in Nigeria’s legal landscape.
