A delegation from the Nigerian Law Society (NLS) was received by the Chairman of the Body of Benchers, the Honourable Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, GCON, former CJN, for a courtesy visit on Wednesday, 26th of November, 2025.

The delegation was led by the President of the NLS, Chief Mela Nunghe, SAN, Bencher and included Dr. Lilian Uche (National Publicity Secretary); Alice O. Awonugba (National Asst. General Secretary); Mr. Steve T. Abar (former General Secretary); Professor Maxwell Gidado, OON, SAN; Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, OFR, MFR, SAN, Life Bencher; Mr. Paul Eshiomomoh; as well as some executive members from the NLS Abuja Chapter, Mr. Jephath J. Tukura (Chairman) and Mr. Micheal Ayuba (Publicity Secretary), among others members.

During the cordial meeting, Chief Nunghe outlined the NLS’s objectives, emphasizing its commitment to the Rule of Law, professional excellence, and advocacy for legal practitioners in Nigeria. The NLS President also offered a candid account of the formidable challenges the young society has faced since its inception. He detailed the undercurrents of opposition the NLS has navigated from different quarters, including the legal hurdle currently pending before the Court of Appeal.

In response, the Honourable Chairman acknowledged the NLS’s perspective and did not hide his bewilderment as to the basis for any resistance to the NLS. Reflecting on the legal profession, he expressed his view that a pluralistic bar can be a positive feature of a vibrant democracy and can contribute to professional growth. He offered his encouragement for the NLS’s mission.

Chief Nunghe thanked the Chairman for his time and reassurance, and he affirmed the NLS’s commitment to upholding the highest professional standards.

The existence of multiple law associations is an established practice in many advanced democracies, such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Sierra Leone, Liberia, and South Africa where it encourages a dynamic and specialized legal ecosystem where no single entity holds a monopoly on the voice of the legal community.

This is similar to the accounting profession in Nigeria, which benefits from the complementary roles of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN).

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