The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ijebu-Ode Branch, has flagged off its 2025 Bar Week with a robust lineup of events aimed at deepening legal discourse, honouring distinguished service, and reinforcing the vital nexus between law and governance in Nigeria.

The annual celebration, now in its 27th year, commenced on Friday, July 4, and will run through to Friday, July 11.

Speaking at a press briefing held at the Bamofin Ade Adedeji (SAN) Bar Centre, the Branch Chairman, Chief (Prof.) Fassy Adetokunbo Yusuf, said the 2025 edition of the Bar Week is poised to be one of the most impactful in recent years. He emphasized the historical importance of the tradition within the legal profession and expressed his anticipation for the arrival of several dignitaries throughout the week.

“This Bar Week is not just a ceremonial event,” Chief Yusuf noted. “It is a platform for deep conversations about the rule of law, the state of justice, and the governance architecture in our society.”

He added that the Bar Week will open with a Jumat Service and conclude with a Grand Bar Dinner and Awards Night. The Awards Night will celebrate individuals who have contributed significantly to the growth of the branch and the legal profession.

The week’s high point, a conference themed “Law and Governance: The Nexus,” was held at the High Court of Justice in Ijebu-Ode and brought together legal professionals, public officials, media representatives, and civil society stakeholders. The event featured lectures, panel discussions, and reflections on how law serves as the foundation for good governance and national development.

In his keynote address, Chief Yusuf highlighted the importance of strong legal institutions, transparency, and accountability in ensuring national stability. He pointed to several developments achieved under his leadership, including the construction of a new conference hall, which was used for the conference, as a testament to the branch’s commitment to progress.

Speaking to Eagle 102.5 FM Ilese-Ijebu, the Chairman reiterated his dedication to upholding justice, fairness, and equity, not only within the Bar but across the wider society.

“We are promoting the rule of law and ensuring that justice is not a privilege for the wealthy,” he said. “There are structures in place to support those who cannot afford legal representation.”

On the challenges facing the legal system, Prof. Yusuf admitted that society is not without flaws. “There is no perfect society. Justice, democracy, and even life itself are continuums. But as custodians of justice, we are obligated to address issues and strive for resolution,” he stated.

When asked about mentoring young lawyers and grooming the next generation of legal professionals, the Chairman confirmed that mentoring efforts are ongoing. “The hands of the little ones can’t get to the rooftop, while the hands of the elderly can’t enter the water gourd,” he said, using a Yoruba proverb to describe the intergenerational synergy within the profession.

Chief Yusuf also used the platform to commend Chief Ade Adedeji, SAN, for donating the ultra-modern Bar Centre, describing it as a “historic milestone” in the annals of the branch. He appealed to the media for wider coverage of the Bar Week, stressing that the NBA Ijebu-Ode Branch deserves recognition for its longstanding contributions to the legal profession and the nation at large.

“Justice, equity, and fairness sustain society, including our democracy,” he said. “We uphold the Rule of Law as the cornerstone of democratic governance. Where infractions occur, the legal profession must respond with resolve.”

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by the branch secretary, followed by the Jumat Service. The Bar Week continues with more activities leading up to the grand finale, a formal dinner and awards ceremony on Friday, July 11.

Notable guests expected during the week include the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, the Chief Judge of Ogun State, the State Attorney General, and the President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Mazi Afam Osigwe, who is expected to lead a high-powered delegation from the NBA national secretariat. The Dinner Speech will be delivered by Hon. Justice Taiwo Taiwo (Rtd), a respected former Federal High Court Judge and Bar activist.