CJN Charges Lawyers to Put Justice Above Profit at NBA Conference
By Ranti Thomas
Nigeria’s legal profession has been urged to return to its core values as the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, called on lawyers to prioritise ethics and justice over financial gain.
She made this call at the opening of the 2026 Annual Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association Section on Legal Practice, held at the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Arts in Lagos.
The CJN warned that the legal profession must not lose its core purpose, stressing that lawyers are not only advocates for clients but also key actors in the administration of justice.
She emphasised that the acceptance of briefs should be guided by conscience and professional responsibility, not just financial gain.
According to her, the misuse of legal processes for delay or personal advantage undermines public trust and weakens the justice system.
Kekere-Ekun noted that the profession is currently facing rapid changes driven by technology, globalisation, and evolving societal expectations.
She said innovations such as artificial intelligence, digital platforms, and new dispute resolution methods are transforming legal practice across the world.
While acknowledging the benefits of these developments, she cautioned that lawyers must not compromise on integrity, competence, and adherence to the rule of law.
The CJN called for stronger cooperation between the Bench and the Bar to ensure that Nigeria’s legal system remains effective and responsive to modern challenges.
She also highlighted the importance of mentoring young lawyers, noting that the future of the profession depends on the values and discipline instilled in emerging practitioners.
Kekere-Ekun commended the introduction of the NBA-SLP Law Firm Directory, describing it as a forward-looking initiative that would improve transparency and organisation within the legal sector.
She said such innovations would enhance credibility, improve client access to legal services, and position Nigerian lawyers more competitively on the global stage.
The CJN urged participants to use the conference as an opportunity to reflect, share ideas, and develop solutions that will strengthen legal practice and justice delivery.
She expressed confidence that the discussions at the conference would help shape reforms that will improve the legal system and reinforce public trust in the judiciary.