By Jeff Nwodo

As The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) approaches its next election, the choice of leadership is critical for the future of the legal profession in Nigeria. Tobenna Erojikwe stands out as the ideal candidate for the presidency, offering a vision and a track record that promise to elevate the NBA to new heights. It is also key to state that the crafters of the NBA’s constitution and the subsequent amendments that placed the tenure of the President to be two years without more did this on purpose to ensure the most value is extracted from every leader and in situations and scenarios were the outcomes are mixed as we experience currently, change is inevitable and quick. I trust the Nation as a whole desires this structure and flow in view of the prevailing leadership air within country. I go back to my message.  Here are compelling reasons why lawyers should cast their votes for Tobenna Erojikwe.

Proven Leadership and Experience

Tobenna Erojikwe is a seasoned legal professional with a wealth of experience in both Nigerian and international legal practices. As a partner at The Law Crest LLP, he leads the firm’s finance, energy, and major projects practice group, showcasing his expertise in complex legal matters. His dual admission to practice in Nigeria and in England and Wales further underscores his broad understanding of the legal landscape. A closer look at his firm’s journey would show you Tobenna can be described without reservation as a builder and he sure builds well. This is a practice he has grown from ground up in close collaboration with other lawyers who took a bet on a future that has now afforded shared success. This is truly growth in its purest and not a narrative of attaching to success of forefathers or associated names. Highly commendable and tells a story of what he can do and build with the Bar. 

Commitment to Continuing Legal Education

Erojikwe has demonstrated a profound commitment to enhancing the skills and knowledge of Nigerian lawyers. As the Chairman of the Governing Board of the NBA’s Institute of Continuing Legal Education (NBA-ICLE), he has been instrumental in developing programs that upskill legal professionals and bridge educational gaps within the system​. His dedication to continuing education ensures that Nigerian lawyers remain competitive and well-equipped to handle contemporary legal challenges. I need not dwell too much on this point as we are all beneficiaries of the lift and gift his leadership of that arm of the Bar has brought our way. I currently practice in far away America but the invaluable outcomes of the NBA ICLE ensures I pay my yearly NBA dues and tap into the outcomes of Tobenna’s Talents and leadership. He has trained young and old. We are in agreement he can and should do more with the general Bar. 

Visionary Leadership for a Resilient Bar

Erojikwe’s vision for the NBA is encapsulated in his campaign theme, “Building a Courageous and Resilient Bar.” He advocates for an NBA that not only champions the rule of law and protects civil liberties but also prioritizes the welfare and professional growth of its members​​. His emphasis on resilience and courage reflects his understanding of the challenges faced by the legal profession and his commitment to overcoming them. He has committed to leave no lawyer behind and has shown this by years long service and performance which is a clear departure from the potential packs other candidates aggressively advertise at this time. 

Strong Advocate for the Legal Profession

Throughout his career, Erojikwe has been a staunch advocate for the legal profession, working tirelessly to advance the interests of lawyers and uphold the integrity of the legal system. His track record of advocacy and service positions him as a leader who will vigorously defend the rights and interests of NBA members.

Conclusion

Tobenna Erojikwe’s extensive experience, visionary leadership, and unwavering commitment to the legal profession make him the ideal candidate for the presidency of the Nigerian Bar Association. His focus on continuing legal education, inclusive leadership, and resilience in the face of challenges promises a brighter future for the NBA. Voting for Tobenna Erojikwe is a vote for progress, unity, and a stronger legal community in Nigeria. If we get it wrong in this election, my starting lines dawns on us which then means long unbroken years of leadership that doesn’t inspire, instruct and empower. This is a season when the country is looking at the Bar to get it right in order to be the conscience of the nation. We must forget the pulls of regional politics, candidacy handshakes, aggressive calls, time dictated texts and look at the records and season. It is Tobenna’s Time.

Let us come together and support a leader who truly understands and is ready to serve the Nigerian Bar Association. Vote Tobenna Erojikwe for NBA President.

This piece is written by Jeff Nwodo, a Nigerian trained lawyer now pursuing greater opportunities in the American legal landscape. He describes himself as a legal outsider who agrees with Tobenna to leave no lawyer behind.