The highly anticipated 63rd Annual General Conference of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) is set to commence in Abuja this weekend with a notable figure gracing the event. President Bola Tinubu is slated to officially inaugurate the conference, a role bestowed upon him following a cordial invitation extended by the leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association. Barrister Yakubu Maikyau, SAN, leading the NBA, extended the invitation.
The significance of President Tinubu's participation was underscored during a meeting held at the Presidential Villa on Friday. During this gathering, President Tinubu assured the delegation of his administration's commitment to diligently review the compensation structures of judicial officers across the nation. He emphasized that in the relentless battle against corruption, it is imperative to comprehensively assess the salaries and allowances of judicial officers. This is an area where President Tinubu brings valuable expertise, given his remarkable achievements in reforming the administration of justice during his tenure in Lagos State.
President Tinubu shared, "The review of remuneration is an essential facet of our commitment to combat corruption within the Judiciary. Our assessment will delve into the associated costs and ramifications of this move," responding to a request from the NBA president.
Acknowledging the urgency of the situation, President Tinubu also addressed the pressing matter of vacancies within the Supreme Court. He acknowledged these vacancies as responsibilities that must be fulfilled in accordance with the recommendations put forth by the National Judicial Council (NJC). Anticipating the return of justices from their recess, he affirmed that the process of addressing the vacancies would soon be underway, terming it an essential obligation.
President Tinubu further acknowledged his privilege of having a team of accomplished legal professionals as close aides, notably mentioning names such as Femi Gbajabiamila, the Chief of Staff, Victor Adeleke, the State Chief of Protocol, and Prince Damilotun Aderemi, his Principal Private Secretary.
In response, the NBA President extended gratitude to President Tinubu for his strategic appointments of distinguished legal experts into his cabinet. Particularly, the appointment of Lateef Fagbemi, who serves as the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, was highlighted as a testament to President Tinubu's commitment to the legal sector. This augurs well for a conference that promises insights and discussions that will shape the course of legal affairs in Nigeria.
