RECAP OF NBA LAGOS BRANCH LAW WEEK 2026: LAWYERING IN THE DIGITAL AGE AND THE CONVERSATIONS SHAPING THE FUTURE OF LEGAL PRACTICE
The 2026 Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Lagos Branch Annual Law Week commenced on an inspiring note, bringing together members of the Bench and Bar, Senior Advocates of Nigeria, policymakers, regulators, academics, technology experts and legal practitioners to examine one of the most pressing questions of our time: How can the legal profession harness technology while preserving justice, ethics and the rule of law?
Held under the theme, “Lawyering in the Digital Age: Navigating Technology, Justice and Innovation,” the Opening Ceremony and technical sessions set the tone for an intellectually stimulating conference, reinforcing the NBA Lagos Branch’s commitment to preparing lawyers for an increasingly technology-driven legal landscape.
The welcome remarks was given by the Chairperson of the Law Week Planning Committee, Mrs. Obosa Akpata, and the Chairman of the NBA Lagos Branch, Mrs. Uchenna Ogunedo Akingbade, who encouraged lawyers to embrace technology as a catalyst for innovation and improved access to justice. Goodwill messages from the President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, the Lagos State Government, the Judiciary, and other distinguished stakeholders underscored the importance of collaboration in advancing justice delivery. Representing the Lagos State Government, Mr. Olayinka Hamid Adeniji, Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Justice, reaffirmed the State’s commitment to judicial reform, innovation, and sustained partnership with the Bar and the Bench.
A Vision for the Future of Legal Practice
One of the defining moments of the day was the keynote address delivered by the Honourable Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, GCON, CFR*, titled “Beyond Disruption: Redefining Legal Practice at the Intersection of Law, Technology and Justice.”
Her Lordship challenged legal practitioners to view technology not as a threat but as a strategic tool capable of strengthening justice delivery. While acknowledging the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence, virtual hearings and digital case management, she reminded delegates that no technological advancement can replace human judgment, constitutional responsibility or the ethical obligations that define the legal profession.
▶️ Watch the Full Keynote Address:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VsOSidX7x5w
Artificial Intelligence: A Tool for the Modern Lawyer
The first plenary session, “The Rise of AI in Legal Practice: Threat or Tool for the Modern Lawyer?”, moderated by Mr. Omoruyi Uyilaw Edoigiawerie, featured Ms. Bukola Ogunsakin, Mr. Fernandez Marcus-Obiene, Mr. Rotimi Ogunyemi and Mr. Ope Olugasa.
The panel explored how Artificial Intelligence is transforming legal research, drafting, due diligence and litigation support. While AI offers unprecedented opportunities to improve efficiency, the speakers unanimously agreed that lawyers remain professionally and ethically accountable for every AI-assisted output. Delegates were encouraged to adopt the NBA’s AI Guidelines, independently verify AI-generated work using primary legal authorities and prioritise client confidentiality in an increasingly digital practice environment.
A live demonstration of AI-powered legal tools further illustrated how innovation can responsibly enhance legal service delivery without compromising professional standards.
Driving Judicial Efficiency Through Technology
Technology’s impact on the administration of justice formed the focus of the second plenary session, “Enhancing Justice Delivery Through E-Filing and Virtual Hearings: Opportunities, Challenges and Implementation,” coordinated by Dr. Kubi Udofia and featuring Hon. Justice Kashim Zannah, Hon. Justice Olayinka Faji, Hon. Justice Rahman Oshodi, Dr. Babatunde Ajibade, SAN, and Mrs. Olusola Adegbonmire.
Drawing on experiences from the Federal High Court and the Lagos State Judiciary, the panel highlighted the progress made through electronic filing, digital case management and virtual hearings in improving efficiency, transparency and access to justice. At the same time, the discussion acknowledged the need for stronger technological infrastructure, enhanced digital payment systems and continued investment in judicial innovation.
Can Technology Reform Justice Without Ethics?
One of the most engaging sessions of the conference was the Oxford-style debate chaired by Mrs. Hairat Aderinsola Balogun, OON, Life Bencher, with Mr. Olasupo Shasore, SAN and Mr. Babatunde Ogundipe, which examined the proposition: “Will Digital Innovation Fail to Reform Nigeria’s Justice System if Ethical Compromise Remains the Bane of the Legal Profession?”
The debate concluded that while technology undoubtedly promotes transparency, accountability and operational efficiency, lasting reform depends on integrity, professionalism and ethical leadership. Technology, the participants agreed, can strengthen institutions but cannot substitute for personal responsibility.
Leveraging Technology for Electoral Integrity
The plenary session, “General Election: Leveraging Technology to Achieve Election Integrity,” coordinated by Mr. Femi Onakoya and chaired by Mr. Augustine Alegeh, SAN, CON, featured Mr. Oluwole Osaze-Uzzi, Dr. Lawrence Bayode, Mr. Etigwe Uwa, SAN, and Mrs. Abimbola Akeredolu, SAN.
The discussion examined the deployment of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV) and Electronic Form EC8A in improving electoral transparency and reducing electoral malpractice. While acknowledging significant progress, the panel stressed that technology alone cannot guarantee credible elections without corresponding legal reforms, public trust and effective implementation.
Balancing Cybersecurity and Fundamental Rights
The plenary session, “The Cybercrimes Act and Freedom of Speech: Justified Derogation or Overreach?”, chaired by Mr. Ikenna Okoli, SAN, featured Dr. Olumide Babalola, Ms. Chineye Oragwu, Mr. Rotimi Aju, Mr. Kolade Olawuni, Mr. Jude Igbanoi, and Assistant Inspector-General of Police Simeon U. Akpanudom.
The panel explored the delicate balance between combating cybercrime and protecting constitutionally guaranteed freedom of expression. While recognising the importance of national security, the speakers advocated legislative refinement of aspects of the Cybercrimes Act to safeguard legitimate public discourse and strengthen digital rights.
Data Protection Beyond Compliance
Attention then shifted to privacy governance during the sixth plenary session, “Data Protection: From Compliance to Crisis Management,” coordinated by Mrs. Bisiolu Yewande and chaired by Mrs. Bodude Tomi, with contributions from Mr. Ayodeji Sarunmi, Mrs. Sandra Eke-Okaka, Mr. Alexander Onwe, Mr. Hanoba Etomi, and Mrs. Lanre Komolafe.
The panel emphasised that organisations must move beyond regulatory compliance by embedding data protection into corporate culture, developing effective incident response mechanisms and ensuring prompt reporting of data breaches under the Nigeria Data Protection Act.
Building a Sustainable Future for Young Lawyers
The final plenary session, “Beyond Paying Dues: Fair Remuneration and Sustainable Growth for Young Lawyers,” coordinated by Gabriel Eseosa Irabor and chaired by Mr. Olabisi Makanjuola, featured Mr. Adeleke Alex-Adedipe, Ms. Olivia Okoyeocha, Gideon Edem, and Mr. Tolulope Adebayo.
The discussion addressed one of the profession’s most important conversations—the welfare and remuneration of young lawyers. Beyond salary considerations, the panel advocated structured mentorship, healthier workplace cultures, skills development, career progression and sustainable policies that empower young practitioners to thrive in an increasingly competitive and technology-driven profession.
Shaping the Future of the Legal Profession
Collectively, the Opening Ceremony, technical sessions and master classes delivered a clear and compelling message: the future of legal practice belongs to lawyers who embrace innovation without compromising justice, ethics and professional responsibility.
From Artificial Intelligence and digital justice to electoral technology, cybersecurity, data protection and the future of young lawyers, the discussions demonstrated the NBA Lagos Branch’s continued leadership in fostering meaningful dialogue on issues shaping the legal profession.
As delegates looked ahead to the remaining activities of the 2026 Law Week, one thing was evident—technology will continue to transform legal practice, but integrity, competence and the rule of law will remain the enduring pillars upon which the profession stands.
📸 Photo Gallery
Opening Ceremony & Technical Sessions:
- https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1pnrPn0TG1Q2rLP3hVMqnM1A5AleKZ1R5?usp=sharing
- https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1jt5P4cOFVIKGAW4duMpYT4p32AHf4C0Z?usp=sharing
▶️ Watch the Chief Justice of Nigeria’s Keynote Address
▶️ Watch the Full Opening Ceremony
📱 Conference Highlights
- https://www.instagram.com/reel/DaM46bUsaHK/?
- https://www.instagram.com/reel/DakFLbDMT5k/?igsh=eHFiZmprMTc4N3ho
- https://www.instagram.com/reel/DaNJcU8ITQe/?igsh=MXU4enAyZmY3ODRmYw==
- https://www.instagram.com/reel/DadhQ88stjI/?igsh=MTNucTd2aDRyMzJubA==
- https://www.instagram.com/p/DaOVkbyjKH_/?igsh=MXZnazg1dHlwbHh4cQ==
- https://www.instagram.com/reel/Dacrr0AtGin/?igsh=ZjA1cHNqNTRxb3Nn
- https://www.instagram.com/reel/DaPNU57MyaA/?igsh=MXB2eDZta3plZDVqZw==
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