The Chairman of the Body of Benchers (BOB), HRM Albert Akpomudje, SAN, Eyavwien-Alaka I, has urged newly qualified lawyers in Nigeria to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and ethical conduct as they begin their legal careers.
Speaking at the Call to Bar ceremony in Abuja, Akpomudje congratulated the new legal practitioners on attaining a significant milestone, describing their admission into the Nigerian Bar as both a privilege and a profound responsibility.
According to him, the legal profession demands unwavering commitment to justice, the rule of law, and selfless service to society.
“The legal profession remains one of the most important pillars of democracy and good governance. As you are called to the Bar today, you must strive to uphold the rule of law, defend justice without fear or favour, and maintain the highest standards of integrity in all your professional engagements,” he said.
The Chairman of the Body of Benchers challenged the new lawyers to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of the legal profession by embracing continuous learning, diligence, and strict adherence to the ethical principles governing legal practice. He noted that the future of Nigeria’s justice system depends largely on the competence, character, and professionalism of its legal practitioners.
Akpomudje also cautioned the management of Nigerian universities against exceeding their approved admission quotas, warning that violations create admission challenges for the Council of Legal Education and could attract sanctions from the regulatory authorities.
He further advised the newly called lawyers, popularly known as “new wigs,” to steer clear of unethical practices capable of tarnishing the image of the legal profession. He stressed that honesty, discipline, accountability, and respect for professional ethics should remain the foundation of their careers.
The legal luminary also encouraged the new practitioners to embrace mentorship, technology, innovation, and continuous professional development to enhance legal service delivery and support reforms aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s justice system.
He reminded the new lawyers that the legal profession offers opportunities beyond personal success, emphasizing their crucial role in protecting human rights, promoting constitutional democracy, and ensuring the peaceful resolution of disputes for national development.
The Call to Bar ceremony officially admitted a fresh batch of qualified lawyers into the Nigerian Bar following the successful completion of their legal education and professional training.
The ceremony attracted senior members of the legal profession, judicial officers, government officials, family members, and well-wishers who gathered to celebrate the admission of the new legal practitioners into the profession.
