NBA proposes law as second degree in Nigerian varsities

In a move to raise the bar for Nigerian lawyers, the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA is seeking to make the study of law a second degree course in Nigerian Universities. The idea was one of the issues contained in the agenda before a committee convoked by the national body of lawyers to find lasting solution to the seemingly low standard of legal profession in the country. Though, the idea is still an agenda for the committee, however it will change the face of law study in Nigeria, if the committee considers it worthwhile. The 23-man committee inaugurated weekend by the NBA president, Abubakar Mahmud, SAN is chaired by Chief Anthony Idigbe, SAN, while Dr Aminu Gamawa is the secretary. The agenda states, among others: ”Given the current size of the legal profession, its exponential growth in recent years in relation to the needs of the Nigerian economy, the committee will consider the desirability of candidates seeking admission to the law faculties in Nigeria to possess a degree in another discipline as a condition for admission.” The statement signed by the NBA secretary , Isiaka Olagunju reads in part: “The Nigerian Bar Association has repeatedly expressed concerns in the falling standard of legal education and legal practice. This is a disturbing phenomenon that must be addressed urgently and adequately.” Other key issues on the committee’s agenda are that it should “review the current regulatory objectives and the regulatory architecture of the legal profession and advise on its suitability to meet the current requirements for a robust, responsive and independent modern legal profession in Nigeria.’’ Other Members of the review committee include: Prof Konyinsola Ajayi,SAN, Mrs Funke Adekoya,SAN, Prof. Auwalu Yadudu, Mrs Bisi Shoyebo,SAN, Chief Arthur Obi Okafor, Prof Ernest Ojukwu,SAN, Mr Olanrewaju Onadeko,SAN, Dr. Mike Adeleke, Prof Ikpeze Ogugua and Prof Dakas C.J Dakas. Others are Prof Augustine Agom, Paul UsoroSAN, Prof Taiwo Osipitan,SAN, Yakubu Maikyau,SAN, Professors Osita Ogbu, U.U Chuckwuema-Eze, Mr. Rotimi Odusola, Patricia Igwebuike Esq, Prof. M. L. Ahmadu, Mrs. Sade Aladeniyi and Mr. Eric Otojahi -Assistant

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