On Friday 28 March, 2025, Asiwaju A.S Awomolo, SAN concluded his tenure as Chairman Body of Benchers (BoB) and assed the baton to to the former Chief Justice of Nigeria Mr. Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, (Rtd.)

Here are excerpts from his valedictory speech.

MY SERVICE, HIS GLORY

VALEDICTORY ADDRESS OF ASIWAJU ADEGBOYEGA SOLOMON AWOMOLO, SANFNIALS, FCArb,  FNJI, FICMC, CHAIRMAN, BODY OF BENCHERS 2024/2025

I. THE BODY OF BENCHERS MUSEUM AND ARCHIVES

Having regard to the place of these giants in our history, I felt that we owed them a collective duty to preserve their contributions for generations yet unborn. It is in order to properly chronicle the eminent roles these illustrious pioneers played in the legal profession of Nigeria that motivated me to conceive the idea of the Body of Benchers Museum and Archives. For a Body that has existed for more than half a century, we considered that the time is ripe enough to begin to curate our own institutional history for the next generation. We belong to the 5th decade of the Body.

Time is ripe to write the history of the Body of Benchers hence work has begun on this project. I assure you that, very soon we will publish the History of the Body, it is a work in progress.

I commend Mrs. H. A. Turaki and members of her Committee for the brilliant work they did and still doing in setting up the Body of Benchers Museum and Archives, with the active support of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments. Today, we are proud that visitors to this premises have a place where they could glean our history, and interact with images and items that meant so much to the Body. The Museum is however a work in progress. I have no doubt that succeeding administrations will continue to populate and upgrade it to ensure that it meets international standard.

II. INTRODUCTION OF SOLEMN AFFIRMATION FOR NEW WIGS

The Legal Practitioners Act makes this Body the sole regulator of the Legal Profession and this cannot be shared with anybody. Thus our primary statutory role is to serve as the guardian of the legal profession in Nigeria. This is a duty that is most sacred. Any lapse on the Body’s part in this regard could lead to admission of applicants who are neither it nor proper into the legal profession. This would be bad not only for the profession but for the society at large. It is my view that one of the worst aflictions that could plague a society is to have unqualiied and unworthy people practising as legal practitioners.

Many years ago, the revered jurist, Justice Adetokunbo Ademola, GCON underscored the solemnity of enrolment when His Lordship observed that:

“By enrolling them we present them to the public as men the public can with confidence employ to carry out the duties and responsibilities appertaining to their all important ofice. We therefore owe it to the public to see that members of the public are not exposed to risks in their dealings with these men.”

In admitting new candidates to the legal profession it is therefore obligatory to hold them to oath or afirmation of a kind, if only to hold them to something sacred.

This was one of the reasons why we decided to introduce Solemn Afirmation by Applicants to the Bar. By this afirmation, the applicants swear to uphold the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 and obey the Rules of Professional Conduct for Legal Profession 2023. This is an important rite of passage that serves to induct the new entrants into the profession.

On 27 November 2024, the Solemn Afirmation was successfully subscribed to by the 805 students of the Nigerian Law School, with a copy of the Rules of Professional Conduct in the Legal Profession 2023, in their hands at their Call to Bar Ceremony, thereby signaling a new dawn for the legal profession in Nigeria. This innovation was well received by the Benchers and it is hoped that it will continue in future Call to Bar ceremonies.

I thank His Lordship Honourable Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, the Vice Chairman of the Body and his team in the Screening Committee who creditably ensured that only the it and proper applicants were called to the Bar.

III. DIGITALIZATION OF THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE LEGAL PRACTITIONERS DISCIPLINARY COMMITTEE

The statutory responsibility of the Body of Benchers is not limited to admitting applicants to the Bar. That is not our only responsibility. I have noted above that the Body as the Guardian and Regulator of the Legal Profession must continue to nurture the profession, whatever is the rank. This is because it has a duty to ensure that the applicants to the Bar are it and proper not only at the time of their call. They must continue to remain it and proper throughout their years of practice as legal practitioners. The Committee which is saddled with this task of ensuring discipline and decorum within the Legal Profession on behalf of the Body of Benchers is the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) established by section 10 of the Legal Practitioners Act, 2004.

In order to ensure that the LPDC continues to discharge its statutory responsibility as the “judicial arm” of the Body of Benchers, we commenced the digitalization of its proceedings with high tech softwares. It was commissioned on 25th March 2025. This introduction of modern technological software application of international certification has eased the work of the Committee. This introduction of high-tech development will facilitate and enhance the work of the Committee and also ensure that the proceedings become more interactive, credible, accurate, reliable, and less burdensome.

In the year 2024/2025, the Committee continued its duty of sifting the wheat from the chaff by ensuring just and fair determination of allegations of professional infractions or misconduct brought against legal practitioners. I thank His Lordship Hon. Justice Ishaq U. Bello, OFR and his Committee members for their sense of justice and industry. The Committee submitted full reports of its judicial activities for the years 2022, 2023 and 2024. The Body at its meeting of 27/02/2025 received and approved those reports.

IV. PUBLICATION OF THE LAW REPORTS OF THE DIRECTIONS OF THE  LEGAL PRACTITIONERS DISCIPLINATY COMMITTEE

Distinguished and respected Benchers, you will recall that in my inaugural address on 21 March 2024, I observed that:

“…Another major problem before the legal profession today is the gradual erosion of discipline and non-observance of the professional ethics contained in the code of conduct of legal practitioners.  The  practice of law today  has  been thoroughly aflicted  with  the  virus of ineptitude and indiscipline. In the last 4 years, this Body has admitted annually an average of I’ve thousand lawyers. Most of these lawyers went into the practice of the law without any opportunity of tutelage. There is need for a reform that will bring back the enviable status of the legal profession…”

It is my belief that one of the ways of engendering discipline in the profession is to publicise and disseminate widely the decisions of the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committees Directions. I am glad to report to you that we have succeeded in curating and publishing the Directions of the LPDC for the past four years [2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024].

I thank the Editorial Committee of the Body of Benchers under the Chairmanship of the cerebral Chief, Dr. Charles Uwensuyi-Edosomwan, SAN and members of his Committee for their industry and idelity to this assignment. In line with the provisions of the National Library Act, we have donated, on your behalf, and deposited as required by law, copies of the Law Reports to the National Library. The Body obtained as required by law International Standard serial Number (ISSN) 2354-3671 for the law Reports.

The Law Reports were publicly presented yesterday at an impressive ceremony. We thank Prof Dakas C. Dakas, SAN who honoured our invitation as the Book Reviewer. The Law Reports are now available at the Secretariat for purchase by legal practitioners and members of the public. I enjoin all of us to purchase the Law Reports for our chambers and to encourage our younger colleagues to read them.

V. PUBLICATION OF THE BODY OF BENCHERS DIARY FOR 2025

The Law Report was not the only publication we succeeded in producing in the course of the year. It must also be placed on record that the Body of Benchers was able to produce its own Diary, – for the first time, for the year 2025. The Diary is not just a calendar pad for the scheduling our programmes for the year. It is a compendium of our history, achievements, and important milestones over the year. If I am permitted to say, it is my humble view that the Diary is a collector’s item that will be referred to in later years.

VI. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE REGISTRY OF LAWYERS ENROLLED IN NIGERIA

It is an established fact that only the Supreme Court keeps the record of all lawyers enrolled in Nigeria as solicitors and advocates of the apex Court. I have always been conscious of the fact that as the statutory body established for admission of suitable, it and proper persons as legal practitioners into the profession, it should be the duty of the Body of Benchers to have a comprehensive database of all lawyers called to the Bar in the country. It has been for some time now, a regular feature of our national and public discourse, issues of whether someone was called to the Bar or not. I do not believe that the issue of being called to the Bar should be subjected to contentious public debate. It is either, on records, you were called or you were not. There is no middle of the road option.

It was for this reason that with the Body’s approval that we embarked on the project to establish a comprehensive Registry of all lawyers enrolled in Nigeria from the first legal practitioner, Nash Hamilton Williams from Sierra Leone who was enrolled 139 years ago on Saturday, 30 February 1886 to Zimughan Complay Enugu who was the last person called to the Bar on 27 November, 2024.

To the glory of God and the permission of the Honourable the Chief Justice of Nigeria and the custodian of the records, the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, the Body of Benchers is now a custodian of the records of all enrolled lawyers in Nigeria.

This is a digital project that is accessible by anyone who wishes to find out if and when someone was called to the Nigerian Bar. I have no doubt in my mind that with the crystallization of the project, the issue of fake lawyers parading the corridors of our courtrooms will be a thing of the past. It is a database open to members of the public and all security agencies conducting investigation to issues related thereto.

Let me take this opportunity to thank again the immediate past Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court for her cooperation and support for this project.

VII. LEGAL PRACTITIONERS BILL 2025

It is also in furtherance of the need to ensure that the legal profession in Nigeria remains competitive and up to date in this world of globalization that we prioritized the drafting of the Legal Practitioners Bill 2025. We are all aware that the Legal Practitioners Act was first enacted in 1962. It was thereafter subjected to series of amendments which culminated in the passage of the comprehensive Legal Practitioners Act in

1975 as Decree No. 15 of that year. Since its passage, it has been variously amended by Decree No. 29 of 1976, Decree Nos 40 and 67 of 1977, Nos. 9 and 75 of 1979, and No. 46 of 1988, amongst others.

At the time the Legal Practitioners Act, 2004, Cap L11 was enacted in its present form, more than forty years ago, the legal profession as well as technology were in the state of relative infancy. From whichever prism it is looked at, the Act has become due for a comprehensive overhaul. This is necessary to ensure that the legislation becomes more responsive to the challenges of contemporary legal practice.

In the past 6 years efforts were made by the Body and the Nigerian Bar Association, with a view to agreeing on acceptable provision to be incorporated into the new Legal Practitioners Act. Several committees were set up to review the Legal Practitioners Act 2004. Indeed the most contentious provision during debates and discussions related to who regulates the legal profession, the Body of Benchers or the Nigerian Bar Association. This Body insisted on the current state of the law, that it is the Body of Benchers which should be the regulatory authority for the practice of law in Nigeria. The NBA on the other hand, stood on the creation of an independent body of persons, including non-lawyers to regulate the practice of law. In the end the status quo is retained in the draft Bill.

We must all give credit and applause to the Honourable Attorney General of the Federation and the Minister Justice, for inalizing and endorsing the Bill now awaiting the Federal Executive Council approval as an Executive Bill for passage to law by the National Assembly. It is hoped the Bill, which I have signed off, will become an Act of the Nation Assembly soon.

Permit me to commend the zeal, commitment and upright leadership of the Honourable Attorney General of the Federation for this great achievement that will change many aspects of the legal practice for good. I also commend the leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association on this exercise.

VIII. CONSTRUCTION OF THE BODY OF BENCHERS ANNEX

On 29 September 2022, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, commissioned this huge complex which took over 10 years to build. We commend the achievement of Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN CFR and Hon. Justice Mary Ukaego Peter-Odili, CFR during whose tenure the gigantic project was commissioned. Leadership is a continuum. We are grateful to all former Chairmen and members of the Body who served in various Committees for their contributions to what the Body of Benchers has become today.

On 6 December 2024, we all witnessed the foundation laying ceremony of the Body of Benchers Annex Building by His Excellency, Chief Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, CON, Life Bencher, the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. This is a huge project intervention costing billions of Naira that will complement the existing physical infrastructure of this complex when completed. Construction work is going on very well at the site. I am conident that the incoming leadership under His Lordship Honourable Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, GCON will ensure that the project becomes a reality.

IX. CONSTRUCTION OF THE BODY OF BENCHERS SIGNAGE

As one drives into this our expansive complex of the Body, one structure you cannot but notice is the blazing Signage that proudly proclaims the name of the Body, THE BODY OF BENCHERS, NIGERIA in our traditional colours of Royal Purple and Regal Gold. The Signage, modest as it were, symbolizes our identity and encapsulates our value as the guardian of the Legal Profession.

Since its construction, the Signage has gone viral in the social media as almost all visitors to the Body of Benchers have taken pictures using the signage as a beautiful backdrop. During the last Call to Bar ceremony, I witnessed several of our young lawyers and their families taking turns to take pictures with the signage. I thank Chief Raiu A. Lawal-Rabana, SAN, Life Bencher and his infrastructural Development Committee for the design, and the execution of the project in record time. I thank Chief Albert Akpomudje SAN, Life Bencher, the Chairman, of Finance and Budget Committee and members of his Committee for their dedication and commitment to the project.

X. HAIRAT ADERINSOLA BALOGUN AUDITORIUM [HABA]

One of the most prominent Halls in this massive complex is the Hairat Aderinsola Balogun auditorium which is named after the irst female Chairperson of the Body. In order to ensure optimum use of the hall, I made it a point of duty that the 1st meeting of the Body, which I chaired, was held in that Hall in April 2024. The gesture might appear as tokenism in some quarters, but I believe it represented our symbolic afirmation of the high esteem of the meeting of the Body. The meeting of the Body in plenary is the highest decision gathering of Benchers. All the meetings of the Body since then have been held in the hall.

XI. ESTABLISHMENT OF WELFARE VISITATION TO OLD BENCHERS

It was Khalil Gibran, the philosopher poet who once observed that:

“But if in your thought you must measure time into seasons, let each season encircle all the other

seasons, And let today embrace the past with remembrance and the future with longing.”

Today, we are proud to be the inheritors of the legacies of our pioneer Benchers. These are outstanding men and women who gave their all to bequeath to us the Body of Benchers we are proud to identify with it. Without doubt, we would not be where we are today without their selless sacriices. Whilst we are praying for the repose of the illustrious souls of those who have slept in the Lord, it is important that we do not forget those who are still alive with us.

As rightly observed by Khalil Gibran, we must learn to let our today embrace the past with remembrance. It was for this reason that we commenced the project of Welfare Visitation to our Old Benchers. In the course of the year, we paid visits to our Pioneer Benchers in Port Harcourt, Kano, Kebbi, Yola, Kaduna, Lagos, Enugu, Ilorin, and Abuja. One could only imagine the joys that the visits brought to these elders who were extremely delighted to receive the Body’s delegations. This is our modest way of thanking them for their services and telling them that their labours of love were not in vain.

XII. TOKEN AND WELFARE FOR SPOUSES OF DEPARTED BENCHERS

The scripture in Ecclesiastes 3: 1-2 tells us in very clear words that:

“For everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted”

In the course of the year many of the heroes of the Body have slept and left behind their loved ones.

Remembering their loved ones has been taken up as part of the responsibilities of the Body. In the course of the year, token of affection in terms of welfare gifts were extended to the families of Benchers who passed. May their souls continue to rest in perfect peace. It is important to note that the little token given to the beneficiaries with the approval of this Body were well appreciated.

XIII. BRIDGE TO THE FUTURE

We are honored to report to the Body that we did not only establish a link with the past by visiting our old Benchers, we also constructed a bridge to the future. The future in this case is no other than the young law students in the Nigerian Law School Campuses who are aspiring to be called to the Bar. It is a truism that “life goes not backward and nor tarries with yesterday.”

In the course of the year, your Chairman was in Abuja, Port Harcourt and Yola Campuses of the Nigerian Law School to dine and wine with the students of the institutions. The importance of the customary dinner for legal practitioners goes, of course, beyond merely wining and dining. This is a treasured and exclusive opportunity for lawyers-in-training to interact and relate with their leaders in the profession. Many other Benchers also visited the other campuses of the Law School, and they brought back reports of good conduct on the part of the students. We are indeed proud of the wonderful work the management of the Law School is doing in grooming these young ones for the legal profession. It is recommended that this practice of the Chairman visiting Campuses of the Law School should be continued.

XIV. INTERACTIVE CONSULTATIVE MEETING WITH THE CHIEF JUSTICE OF NIGERIA

On behalf of all of us, permit me to express our collective gratitude to the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Kudirat Motonmori Kekere-Ekun, GCON. Whilst it is not in doubt that the Chief Justice is a foremost statutory Life Bencher, we believe that there is a need for a platform for the Benchers to relate with the CJN as the head of the Nigerian Judiciary. This Body being the assemblage of men and women of the highest distinction in the legal profession occupy a very significant leadership position in the administration of justice. The voice of the Body as a major stakeholder must be heard loud and clear by the Honourable Chief Justice. It is not to be taken for granted in the administration of Justice in Nigeria.

I am glad to inform you that the 1st Consultative and interactive Meeting with the Chief Justice of Nigeria and the Body of Benchers had taken place. I am glad to inform us that the forum was productive, fruitful, and rewarding. Issues of mutual interest were discussed and irm understanding was reached on the way forward.

It is my hope that the Consultation Meeting has come to stay in the collective interest of all the stakeholders.

XV. INSTITUTION OF THE BODY OF BENCHERS ANNUAL LECTURE

As noted above, the Body of Benchers is going to be 54 years old in June of this year. The Body of Benchers Annual Lecture [BOBAL] was conceived to be an annual platform for intellectual cum practical introspective relections of the dynamics of the Body of Benchers within the legal profession in Nigeria. It is a programme designed to showcase to the national and international audience the workings of the Body of Benchers. Body of Benchers exist in all the commonwealth countries and other jurisdictions. There is need for stretching hands of fellowship to other countries with a view to beneiting from global networking and exchange of ideas.

The maiden edition of the BOBAL took place yesterday, and I am happy to note that many Benchers attended the landmark event. I thank His Excellency, Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN CON. who delivered the

keynote address at the Lecture. We appreciate the discussants, Hon. Justice Helen Moronkeji Ogunwumiju JSC, Life Bencher, Professor Damilola Olawuyi, SAN., Professor Isa Hayatu Chiroma, SAN, Director General of the Nigerian Law School, Life Bencher and Hon. Justice Ishaq U. Bello, Life Bencher.

XVI.    ADMINISTRATIVE  RESTRUCTURING  OF  THE  COMMITTEES     OF  THE  BODY  OF BENCHERS

When we came into ofice, one of the policy decisions we took was to create a sense of an all-inclusive ownership by all Benchers. As an egalitarian institution, it is our belief that all Benchers have a stake in the Body. We therefore restructured the administration of the Body by increasing the Committees from 14 to 17.

That was not all. We also renamed the Committees to ensure that their names and terms of references relect contemporary operational schedule of self-accounting public institutions. The terms of reference of the Committees were tailored to support and oversight the technical responsibilities of the management. The relationship of the Committees and administration was harmonious to achieve greater productivity, mutual respect and eficiency.

In addition, we institutionalized the Body with the ofices of the Chairmen and Vice Chairmen of all the 17 Committees thereby creating a unique Cabinet for the purpose of deepening inclusivity in the administration of the Body of Benchers.

I must once again, express my deepest appreciation to all the Chairmen, Vice Chairmen, and members of all the Committees. It has been a wonderful experience working with you all, and learning from you in the past one year. I am truly honoured.

Leadership is about accepting responsibility. In this regard, I accept responsibility for any error of judgment that might have been perceived in the structuring and restructuring of the Committees. The works of the Body have been made easier and better by contribution of ideas and experiences.

XVII.  ORIENTATION  ON  RULES,  REGULATION,  AND  ETHICS  AND   ETHICS/INDUCTION  OF NEW LIFE BENCHERS AND BENCHERS

One of the areas of concern to the members of the Body of Benchers, in the last few years was the absence of opportunity for new members of the Body whether from the Bar or the Bench to be fully acquainted with and briefed or given orientation on the rules, ethics, regulations and culture of the Body. We proposed an orientation program and a formal induction ceremony for new members and Life Benchers. You graciously approved it. This Body approved the proposal because it has become inevitable.

On Thursday, 27 February 2025, we conducted orientation programme and inducted new sets of Life Benchers and Benchers. These are legal practitioners from the Bench and Bar who have distinguished themselves as practitioners and jurists of the highest distinction. These Benchers afirmed before God and man to uphold the integrity, nobility and honour of the Body, give good leadership to the junior ones and obey the Rules and regulation of the Body.

In commemoration of their new status, the Body of Benchers issued them Certificates evidencing their membership of this august Body. I recall that when many of us were admitted, no such documentation was issued to us, we merely walked into the meeting of the Body and introduced our names as new members.

This innovative development thus marked a new milestone in our quest to advance the institution of the Body of Benchers. Every new Bencher will now get a Certiicate of Admission upon being granted the privilege of becoming a member. This will obviate the needless and unnecessary dispute about the dates of seniority of membership.

This initiatives should be sustained and incorporated in the Body’s Rules and Regulations as part of the Body’s calendar and obligation.

Closely related to or connected with membership of the Body are the unsettling disputations as to seniority or skips in the dates of membership either as Bencher and Life Benchers. Many Benchers have disputed their dates, even though the secretariat keeps all records. In other to remove all disputations a data base of all Benchers has been created where the essential details or dates of all Benchers will be kept. At a click on the button every detail of members will be seen with picture of each member.

The central Registry of the Body has been re-organised to ensure that every Bencher is given whatever he/she is entitled to. Benchers are requested to avail themselves of these electronic records by cross checking the correctness of dates stored in the database.

XVIII.  FINANCING  OF THE  ACTIVITIES  OF THE  BODY OF BENCHERS

It is correct to say that the Body enjoys appropriation and release of funds from the National Judicial Council (NJC) as an independent body. However, the funds released to the Body were never enough. This Body statutorily has the power to take donations and use such donations for the works of the Body, so, soliciting for and getting donations is lawful.

If we have been able to achieve a few things in the course of our service year, it is because of the commitment and generously of the good people who served the Body with their time and resources. We could not have achieved anything without the goodwill of Benchers and Non Benchers who generously donated funds. In the course of the year, we received in donations a total of N68,846,619.00 [Sixty-eight Million, eight hundred and forty-six thousand, six hundred and nineteen Naira]. A detailed statement of account has been prepared by the Secretariat and it is available as part of the books of records of the Body of Benchers. We are grateful to all the donors.

XIX.    STAFF OF THE BODY OF BENCHERS

Professor Obaro Ikime, the foremost historian, stated unequivocally that history “is constantly passing by ordinary men and women without whose lives and work, there would be no history at all.”

It will therefore be uncharitable or unfair of me if I conclude this address without acknowledging the massive support I received from the Staff of the Body of Benchers. They are the ‘historical ordinary men and women’ who made to happen land mark achievements. These wonderful men and women are the hidden engines that drove the achievement recorded in the last one year of our activities. Eficient like clockwork, and constant like the Northern Star, they work behind the scene seamlessly to ensure that the Body of Benchers does not fail or falter.

I have always believed that of all resources for development, human resource is the most important. Human resources experts have always emphasised that in all establishment, human resources should be given due priority.

The Body of Benchers when it was established was located in the Federal Ministry of Justice, from Marina Lagos to Federal secretariat Abuja. With the separation from the Ministry of Justice to a self-accounting Body, the number of staff increased with increasing responsibilities of the Body. I am pleased to inform the

Body that the Human Resources Committee under the Chairmanship of  Hon Justice Umaru Eri CFR, Life Bencher has restructured, the organogram, the career path progression and opportunities for achieving fulilment are now achievable for career advancement. Promotion to higher ofices is now available and all the staffs are happy. The Body now operates Directorates as against unit heads. I want to thank all the

members of the Human Resources Management Committee of the Body for their commitment and sacrifices.

Permit me to say that I am really excited and happy having regards to structural remodelling made to the personnel matter of the Body. To whom much is given, so much more is expected from them.

In recognition of their selless service, I instituted the Chairman’s Annual Award for the Best Staff of the Body of Benchers. This award is backed with cash gift of N500,000. The Human Resources Management Committee endorsed the award. It is our hope that the Award would be sustained as it will go a long way in boosting the morale of the staffs and in letting them know that their labours are recognised and will be rewarded in due course.

XX. “A STORM IN A TEA CUP” AIMED TO DISTRACT

You will also remember that when we started in April 2024, there arose “a storm in a tea cup”. There was disputation as to the validity, lawfulness and rightfulness of the appointment of the Chairman of the Appointment Committee. The Hon. Justice Mary U. Peter –Odili, JSC Rtd, who was the Chairman of the Body from 1/4/2023 to 30/3/2024 totally disowned the alleged appointment of the Chairman of the Appointment Committee. The matter, while it was being still discussed in Abuja was taken before the Federal High Court, Lagos, wherein the authority of the Chairman of the Body was challenged. It was unthinkable that a call to service which in all seriousness was an honour to serve could get that fierce in a nonproit position.

The Body of Benchers and its Chairman were promptly restrained from performing their statutory duties by an ex-parte order given by the Honourable Judge.

The then, Chief Justice of Nigeria Hon. Justice Olukayode Ariwoola GCON and few other Elders at a meeting at the Supreme Court resolved that the disputed appointment of the Chairman of the Appointment Committee be allowed to stay. What has never happened in the over 50 years of the Body was compromised. The case was withdrawn and later struck out.

This matter remains the darkest spot in the life of the Body and never again should this be allowed to happen. This Body, however, unanimously amended the Regulation of the Body and made institution of Court actions on an internal matter of the Body, without irst exhausting internal dispute resolutions, well laid out in the rule, will amount to misconduct. I thank Hon. Justice John Iyang Okoro, JSC, who is the Chairman of the Regulation Committee for a good job in the reform introduced in the new Regulation of the Body.

Events shape the fortune and ways of humanity and it is for humanity to learn from their experience. The Body learnt a lot from the adverse use of social media to disparage and bring into public opprobrium the honour, integrity and public image of the Body.

I thank everyone for your patience, understanding and maturity that have put behind us this unfortunate incident. We all have learnt unforgettable lessons.

I am indeed grateful for the moments I shared with all the members of the Body. Memory of your good deeds can never and will never be forgotten. I cherish the 12 months I served as the Chairman, Body of Benchers. It will be a chapter in my memoir. The scripture says “wisdom is a defence and money (with influence) is a defence but the excellency of knowledge is that wisdom giveth life to them that have it… wisdom strengthenth the wise more than the mighty men which are in the city.. the end of a thing is better than its beginning. (Ecclesiastics 7 & 8)

XXI. PERORATION

Distinguished  Benchers, time and space will not permit me to catalogue all  the interventions we embarked on in the last one year. With your support and assistance, we have come this far. We have served and with the Grace of God, we have succeeded. Although I am the only one who is standing on this podium to reel out this scorecard to you, you can be rest assured that this is not a personal achievement of Adegboyega Awomolo alone. It is our collective achievement.

All that I have spoken about in this address may be regarded as my own story, but it is certainly to the glory of God Almighty, who has made all these possible. It is God Almighty who deserves the glory for bringing us this far. Without Him, we are but nothing. The book of prophet Isaiah 42:8 says that: He is the Lord God and that He will not share His glory with any man. He alone deserves and takes the glory.

I must not end this address without expressing my gratitude to His Lordship Hon. Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, GCON. As the Vice Chairman during my tenure, His Lordship supported me without qualification. It has been a cherished privilege working with His Lordship. I have no doubt in my mind that as the incoming Chairman of the Body of Benchers, Justice Ariwoola will lead the Benchers with his characteristic, maturity, native intelligence, uncommon wisdom, unparalleled team spirit, and the innate ability to get things done. I hope everyone will give him all the support as he assumes the Chairmanship of the Body later today.

To my family, particularly my wife, Yeye Victoria Olufunmilayo Awomolo, SAN, Bencher, many thanks for being a bulwark of support, and many thanks for providing a conducive home whilst this assignment lasted. When the storm was tough, you stood solidly on the Rock in prayers, if not for God, the adversaries aimed at frustrating the tenure but God won on all fronts.

Permit me to end this address with applauses and thanks, to Daniel Manasseh Tela, Esq., – Secretary of this Body. He is the reinforcement appointed from God that sustained all the structure that we erected. The support  and importance of the Secretary cannot be over emphasised. He worked day and night to ensure we complied with civil service rules, followed due process, complied with financial regulations and followed the pattern already, established for previous records of success of the Body.

Like Daniel in the scripture, he was at all times loyal and committed. When adversaries tried to create an opportunity to challenge his loyalty; His loyalty was tested and in the end came out a good man that deserves trust. His working with me knew no hours; he was full of strength, foresight, and commitment for excellence. We encouraged ourselves in the word of God. He was the driver that piloted the vehicle of the Body to this safe place. To say, Thank You, is not enough, but I know only God rewards, and He will reward him.

To God Almighty; the most merciful, and benevolent God, I give my thanksgiving. I will forever praise His

Holy name for my service. All glory goes to Him.

Asiwaju Adegboyega Solomon Awomolo, SAN

52nd Chairman of the Body of Benchers 27th March, 2025

Watch the full video

• Wike set to digitalise FCT High Court
• More houses for FCT judges underway

Following a call from Life Bencher and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Ezenwo Nyesom Wike to members of the Body of Benchers (BoB) requesting that Prof. Chidi Odinkalu be punished for degrading the legal profession and the judiciary in particular, Odinkalu announced, via his LinkedIn page, “We will tell his story when the time comes.”

Responding further to the call for his punishment, Odinkalu said: “#Nigeria‘s powerful cabinet Minister of the Federal Capital Territory & former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has a very dependent relationship with dangerous beverages.

“Last week, he consumed some of that stuff &, while under the influence, asked the hashtag#BodyOfBenchers to get me disbarred for saying the truth about his habit of seeking to accessorize the judiciary.”

Wike spoke while receiving members of the Body of Benchers, who paid him a courtesy visit in Abuja on Friday.

According to the minister, “We cannot shut our eyes when we see individuals for whatever interest it is kill this profession. It’s not acceptable. You see what the so-called Professor Odinkalu is writing, and you say nobboy has brought a petition. You don’t need to receive a petition. Once you see his writeups, invite him and ask, ‘Did you write it? Yes or no?’ If you don’t discipline somebody, nobody will learn a lesson. We cannot continue to allow our profession to go down.”

Declaring his support and allegiance to the legal profession, the minister revealed that plans are underway to build more houses for FCT judges to ameliorate accommodation challenges and that a fully fitted fire station will be constructed for the court.

He also disclosed that the FCT High Court will be digitalised to stop manual operations and judges writing in longhand.

“I will do anything to support the profession I belong to. I don’t owe anybody any apology to contribute to the growth of that profession. Tomorrow, when you come out, what role would you say you performed to enhance their performance?”

Watch the full video below.

Read Also: Rivers’ State of Emergency: No money to give to the NBA for the conference — Wike

Officials of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have reportedly invaded the Asokoro home of Abuja socialite Aisha Achimugu over alleged fraud.

EFCC had, in a public statement by the commission’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, declared her wanted for alleged criminal conspiracy and money laundering.

Aisha’s mother, who was at home on Friday night, was allegedly interrogated and pressured to tell them the whereabouts of her daughter.

Aisha is said to be on the run.

The socialite and managing director/CEO of Felak Concept Group, was spotlighted in 2024 following news of her lavish 50th birthday bash in two cities.

Achimugu turned 50 on January 22, 2024. However, festivities began a week earlier.

The socialite had guests alternate between Calivigny Island and Silversand, an intimate and luxury resort on the sands of Grand Anse Beach in Grenada, for a seven-day extravaganza.

Prominent figures, including a governor and some of the crème de la crème of the Nigerian entertainment industry, were in attendance.

Here’s a breakdown of what the activities looked like.

DAY ONE: On the first day, guests arrived, settled in, and unwinded from their journeys.

DAY TWO: A welcome breakfast, exploration of the resort, and mingling.

DAY THREE: Activities like kayaking, swimming, and treasure hunting were scheduled for the third day. There was also a bonfire as guests gathered for a night of warmth and music.

DAY FOUR: Special performances, including a drum dance, saw attendees turn up in elegant African attire.

DAY FIVE: More performances were lined up on the fifth day, including performances from a local band, a wide array of cocktails, and a retro disco party.

DAY SIX: On the sixth day, which was Achimugu’s birthday, the guests went on an excursion round the island.

DAY SEVEN: The last day of the bash was capped off with an all-white breakfast and a luxurious dinner, which saw guests dazzle for a themed ‘glitz and glam’ before bidding Grenada goodbye.

EXTRAS IN ABUJA

On January 26, Achimugu hosted another evening birthday party at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja.

The following day, the socialite hosted a dinner party at the International Conference Centre (ICC).

After the party, the Federal Capital Territory Internal Revenue Service (FCT-IRS) asked Achimugu to remember to file her annual tax returns.

ONE YEAR LATER, EFCC DECLARES ACHIMUGU WANTED FOR ‘MONEY LAUNDERING’

The Cable/The Conclave with Radarr report

• As NBA continues consultations about possibility of venue change

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has condemned the Nigeria Bar Association’s (NBA) stance on the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers by President Bola Tinubu.

Wike, a Life Bencher, alleged that the NBA discredited Tinubu’s decision because the Rivers government had promised to host their annual general conference.

The minister made the allegation when officials of the Body of Benchers, led by its then-chairman, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), paid him a courtesy visit in Abuja on Friday.

He remarked that the association did not support the declaration of a state of emergency because there would be no money to give to the NBA for the conference.

“What kind of hypocrisy is this?” he queried.

The minister called on the Body of Benchers to call the NBA to order over the association’s unnecessary criticism of the judiciary.

He said that the body should not sit and watch while the NBA and its members destroy the legal profession.

He claimed that some members of the NBA go on national television to condemn the judgments and criticise judges without reading a judgment; actions which he said have continued with no sanction.

“If you don’t discipline somebody, nobody will learn any lesson.

“We shall no longer allow our profession to be pulled down. I cannot believe, as a lawyer, that you make a contribution to help the legal profession and you will be criticised by your fellow lawyers.

“Sir, time has come that we need to say look, enough is enough. We cannot continue to discourage our judges and justices. It is not done anywhere.

“I have never seen where members of a profession are the ones that are bent on bringing the profession down,” he said.

The minister also accused the NBA of describing any support rendered by the executive arm of government to the judicial arm, as a bribe.

Wike recalled that when the NBA was building its national secretariat, the leadership wrote to the executive for support, adding that nobody saw that as a bribe.

“I was the only one who contributed to the NBA to build the National Secretariat. The NBA didn’t see it as a bribe.

“When you contribute to the Body of Benchers, it is a bribe, but when you contribute to NBA it is not a bribe, they will take it.

“The same NBA will rely on state governments to sponsor their activities, but when the state government supports the judiciary, it is bribery,” he added.

Wike said that the constant taunting of judges and justices had made them to avoid attending social gatherings or going to church or mosque for fear of molestation.

He added that judges could no longer shake people’s hands freely because lawyers would accuse them of collecting bribes.

“It has gotten to the stage that our judges are so scared of going to a mosque or church or even greeting somebody they know because of fear of bribery.

“They run away from shaking people’s hands because they will start accusing them of collecting bride. This must stop,” he said

In the meantime, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) at its virtual Emergency National Executive Council (NEC) meeting on Thursday, March 27, 2025 has resolved to allow the National Executive Committee to Conduct further Consultations regarding the 2025 Annual General Conference scheduled to take place in Rivers State and report to NEC.

NEC members during the meeting unanimously approved and ratified the position of the NBA President’s statement regarding the declaration of State of Emergency in Rivers State and the Suspension of Government Officials in Rivers State by his Excellency, President Ahmed Bola Tinubu.

A key issue deliberated upon during the meeting was the venue of the 2025 NBA Annual General Conference (AGC), originally scheduled to hold in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. After extensive discussions, NEC members considered two motions: A motion to immediately relocate the 2025 AGC from Port Harcourt, Rivers State and another motion to allow the NBA National Executive Committee and the AGC Planning Committee to conduct further investigations, consult stakeholders, and make a final decision, which would be reported back to NEC.

The voting process conducted by the General Secretary of the NBA, Dr. Mobolaji Ojibara revealed that 69 NEC members voted in favor of allowing the NBA National Executive and AGC Planning Committee to investigate and take a decision, while 65 members voted in favor of immediately relocating the conference from Rivers State.

A coalition of over 350 women groups has called for an immediate public apology from Peter Nwaebonyi, the senator representing Ebonyi North District in Ebonyi State, over his verbal attack on former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili.

The groups, in a statement issued on Thursday, also accused the Senate Committee members of failing to call Mr Nwebonyi to order after what they described as his “disrespectful and vulgar” language directed at Mrs Ezekwesili.

The coalition described his comments as a deliberate attempt to undermine women’s voices, saying his actions were “wholly unbecoming of a public official.”

“This conduct is an affront not just to Oby Ezekwesili but to every woman who advocates for fairness, justice, and equity,” the statement read.

The coalition includes organisations such as ActionAid Nigeria, Baobab for Women’s Human Rights, Bring Back Our Girls, the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Women Environmental Programme (WEP), Stand to End Rape (STER), Media & Teens Network, Women in Management, Business and Public Service (WIMBIZ), and Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre (WARDC).

Back story

The controversy stems from a Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges hearing held on 25 March where Mr Nwebonyi directed harsh and dismissive remarks toward Mrs Ezekwesili.

The hearing was convened to address a petition by Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central against Nedanwen Imasuen of Edo South, seeking his disbarment from the Nigerian Bar over allegations of professional misconduct.

During the session, which focused on governance and justice-related petitions, Nwebonyi reportedly belittled the coalition’s efforts, dismissing them as “unserious” and a “waste of time.”

He further mocked the petitioners, stating he was “ready to be a witness for the Senate President.”

The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from over 350 women’s groups, who view the senator’s behavior as indicative of a broader culture of marginalisation and disrespect toward women in public spaces.

This incident has also reignited discussions about the treatment of women in Nigerian politics and governance, with calls for accountability and cultural change.

Disappointments

The coalition also expressed disappointment in the senate committee for failing to reprimand Senator Nwebonyi during the proceedings, saying their inaction amounted to complicity.

The group said the committee’s failure to intervene shows a disregard for women in politics.

“The failure of the committee to intervene condoned the disgraceful behavior and perpetuated a culture of disregard for women in political spaces,” the coalition stated.

The coalition praised Mrs Ezekwesili, addressing her as a “national leader and global treasure” whose contributions to governance and women’s empowerment are widely recognised.

“As a former minister and Chairperson of Women Political Leaders (WPL), Oby Ezekwesili has consistently championed justice and the inclusion of women in leadership. Any attempt to demean her is an attack on the dignity of Nigerian women,” the statement added.

The groups emphasised that women would not accept any further disrespect directed at Mrs Ezekwesili or any other woman advocating for justice.

Systemic marginalisation

The coalition noted that the incident highlights the systemic marginalisation faced by women in Nigeria’s political space.
They noted that his behavior translates to gender-based violence.

“Senator Nwebonyi’s behavior is reflective of the abuse of power rooted in gender-based violence. It seeks to intimidate and silence women who challenge the status quo, undermining the principles of dignity and equality,” the statement added.

The women’s groups vowed to hold the Senate accountable for the incident, insisting that it must not be swept under the carpet.

The full statement reads:

Coalition of Over 350 Women Groups Demands Public Apologies from Senate Committee on Ethics Members and Senator Peter Onyekachi Nwebonyi Following Nwebonyi’s Disrespectful Outburst Toward Oby Ezekwesili, a National Leader and Global Treasure.

The Coalition of over 350 women groups strongly condemns the recent disgraceful conduct exhibited by Senator Peter Onyekachi Nwebonyi during the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges hearing held on March 25th March, 2025. His use of highly insulting and vulgar language towards Oby Ezekwesili, a respected leader and an invaluable asset to this nation, is completely unacceptable and must not go unaddressed.

This hearing, which was meant to deliberate on critical issues related to justice and governance, descended into a spectacle of disrespect and arrogance, as Senator Nwebonyi shamefully targeted Dr Oby Ezekwesili. Instead of maintaining the dignity and seriousness that the Senate hearing demanded, Senator Nwebonyi opted to derail the proceedings, mocking the petitioners and disregarding the importance of the matters at hand. He not only interrupted the process but dismissed our efforts as “unserious” and a “waste of time,” adding that he was “ready to be a witness for the Senate President since we were not serious.” Such condescending and dismissive rhetoric is an open attempt to silence the voices of women advocating for justice. This conduct is wholly unbecoming of a public official.

We, as a coalition, demand an immediate and unequivocal apology from Senator Peter Onyekachi Nwebonyi for his actions, and we call upon the Senate Committee members present to take responsibility for failing to call him to order during the hearing. The failure of the committee to intervene not only condoned this egregious behavior but also perpetuated a culture of disregard for women’s voices in the political space. This cannot and will not be tolerated.

Senator Nwebonyi’s actions were not simply a difference of opinion; they were an intentional and calculated attempt to undermine the credibility of women speaking out in pursuit of justice. This is an example of the abuse of power, rooted in gender-based violence, that seeks to intimidate and silence women who dare to challenge the status quo. It is a stark reminder of how women continue to be marginalized in political and public discourse. Senator Nwebonyi’s behavior reflects an alarming disregard for the values of fairness, dignity, and respect.

Oby Ezekwesili is the Former Minister of Education and currently the Chairperson of Women Political Leaders (WPL), who always stood firm in defending the right of women to be heard and respected in all spaces, particularly in politics. We will not allow this assault on our dignity to stand. Senator Nwebonyi’s actions were an affront not only to Oby Ezekwesili but to every woman who believes in fairness, equality, and justice. Women across the country are watching, and we will not accept this disrespect.

We demand that the Senate Committee members take immediate action to hold Senator Nwebonyi accountable for his disgraceful behavior. We expect them to issue a public apology, not only to Oby Ezekwesili but also to the women of Nigeria whose voices are systematically belittled and ignored in political spaces.

Let it be clear that we, the women of this nation, will not allow any further disrespect to go unchecked. We will continue to demand justice, equality, and accountability in every forum. We will continue to fight for the dignity and respect of all women, and we will not rest until Senator Nwebonyi and the Senate Committee are held fully accountable for their actions.

This fight is far from over, and we stand united in our pursuit of justice for Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan and for all women who have been silenced, marginalized, and disrespected in political spaces. Our resolve is stronger than ever: “This Injustice Shall Not Be Sustained”—and we add, “NEVER.”

100 Women Lobby Group (100WLG)
9jafeminista
Action Aid Nigeria
ACTS Generation GBV
Ade Grange Child Foundation
ADEM Community Human Development Foundation
Adinya Arise Foundation (AAF)
Advocate for Health and Development Initiative
Affirmative Action Initiative for Women (NCAA)
African Women’s Initiative/ Verity CNET
African Women’s Initiative (AWI)
Ajegunle Community Project
Ajoke Ayisat Afolabi Foundation
Alliances for Africa
Amaclare Connect and Development Initiative
Amazing Grace Inspirations
Aminchi Women Cooperative Society
Amuwo odofin local government
ARDA Development Communication Inc.
Arise Nigerian Woman Foundation.
Association Against Women Exploitation and Degradation (AAWED)
Association of Nigeria Women’s Business Network (ANWBN)
Association of Women in Trade and Agriculture (AWITA)
ATATA Development and Empowerment Foundation (ADEF)
AYO Fadugba KYF Foundation
Baobab for Women’s Human Rights
BLECCA Foundation
Bring Back Our Girls
Briskila Emefesi Women Foundation (BEWOF)
Brooklyn College, City University of New York, USA
Cece Yara Foundation
Cedar Seed Foundation
CEE-HOPE Nigeria
Center for Economic Empowerment and Gender Activities (CEEGA)
Center for Transparency Advocacy
Center for Women’s Health and Information
Centre for Alternative Development and Self-Enhancement (CEADESE NG)
Centre for Health and Development in Africa (CHEDA)
Centre for Media and Development Communications
Centre for Nonviolence and Gender Advocacy in Nigeria (CENGAIN)
Centre for Peace Education and Community Development
Centre for Women’s Health and Information (CEWHIN)
Change Managers International Network
Charity Women Spring of Salvation
Chedal Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society
Child Care and Adult Protection Initiative(CCAPI)
Choung-Dung Women Association.
Christian Women for Excellence and Empowerment in Nigerian Society (CWEENS)
Christian Women in Nigerian Politics
Citizens Center for Integrated Development and Social Rights (CCIDESOR)
Citizenship and Human Development Initiative
Civil Resource Development and Documentation Center (CIRDDOC)
Community and Youth Development
Community Education Advancement of Peace and Development Initiative (CEAPDI)
Community Initiative for Healthy and Peaceful Society
Community Life Project (CLP)
Community Partners for Development (CPD)
Community Rescue Initiative (CRI)
Community Women Initiatives (CWI)
Country Associates Network
Country Associates Network (CAN)
Courageous People Health and Development Initiative (CPHDL)
Crestville Development Foundation
Champion Women Entrepreneurs Mentoring Association (CWEMA)
Daria Media Foundation (DMF)
Development in Practice Gender and Entrepreneurial Initiative (DIPGEI)
Digi Civic Initiative
Dinidari Foundation
Dorothy Njemanze Foundation (DNF)
Dr. Oby Ezekwesili
Dream Alive Women and Orphans Support Foundation (DAWOS Foundation)
Echoes of Women in Africa Initiatives
Edo Women’s Development Initiative
Education As a Vaccine (EVA)
Emerge Women Development Initiative (EWDI)
Empowerment and Action
Enough is Enough (EIE)
Equality Through Education Foundation (ETEF)
Equity Advocates and The Woman Today Newspater TWT
FACICP Disability Plus
Federation of Informal Workers of Nigeria (FIWON)
Federation of Muslim Women Association in Nigeria (FOMWAN)
Federation of Paralegal Network (FEDPAN)
Fembridge Development Initiative (FEDI)
First Future Leadership
First Future leadership Company/Gte
Ford Foundation
Former Women Action Organization (WAO)
Forum of Women in Politics (FONWIP)
Forward in Action for Education, Poverty and Malnutrition (FACE-PAM)
Foundation for Justice Development and Peace (FJDP)
Gender Action Awareness Trust
Gender and Community Empowerment Initiative
Gender and Constitution Reform Network (GECORN)
Gender and Development Action (GADA)
Gender and Environmental Risk Reduction Initiative (GERI)
Gender Awareness Trust (GAT)
Gender Development Initiative
Gender Equality Center
Gender Equality, Peace and Development Centre
Gender Strategy Advancement International (GSAI)
Gender Technical Unit (GTU)
Genger Equality, Peace and Development Centre
Gender Relevance initiative Promotion (GRIP)
Girl Child Advocacy and Education Initiatives
Girl Child Africa
Girl Child Education, Care & Rehabilitation
Girl Education Rehabilitation and Care (GERAC)
Girls Power Initiative (GPI)
Global Hope for Women and Children Foundation (GLOHWOC)
Green Spring Development Initiative
Habiba Dangana (Hadis) Foundation
Heal Disability Initiative
Health Education and Human Rights Advocacy Initiative
Health Reform Foundation of Nigeria(HERFON)
HEIR Women Development
Help Initiative for Social Justice & Humanitarian Development
Help Initiative for Social Justice & Humanitarian Development
Hope for New Life (HNL)
Independent consultant
Initiative for Research, Innovation and Advocacy in Development (IRIAD)
Inter Africa Committee (IAC)
Inter Gender Peace Foundation (IGPF)
International Action Network on Small Arms Women Network (IANSA)
International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA)
International Hairstylists, Barber and Body Therapists (IHSTOBAN)
International Women Communication Centre (IWCC)
Iyaniwura Children Care Foundation (ICCF)
Jamatul Nasir Islam, Women Wing
Jana Health Foundation (JHF)
Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies
Julie Oyegun
Justice Development and Peace Mission (JDPM)
Kebetkache Women Development And Resources Centre
Kilimanjaro Youth Foundation (KYF)
KMashi Gamji Women
Koyenum Immalah Foundation
Kudirat Initiative for Democracy (KIND)
Kungiyar Tallafin Mata Development Initiative (KTMDI)
League of Queens International Empowerment (LQIE)
League of Women Voters of Nigeria (NILOWV)
LEDAP
Legislative Advocacy Coalition on Violence Against Women Initiative (LACVAW)
Lift Initiative
Mary Afansmallscale women farmers organization on Nigeria (SWOFON)
MBULA Women Association
Media & Teens Network
Media Concern Initiative
Media Concern Initiative for Women and Children
MODAC
More Women in Politics
Mothers United and Mobilised (MUMs)
My Voice My Future NGO
Nasrul – Lahi-L- Faith Society (NASFAT)
National Centre for Women Development
National Council of Women Societies (NCWS)
NAWE
NAWORG
NECA’s Network of Entrepreneurial Women
Neighbourhood Care-Well Foundation
Network of Reproductive Health Journalists of Nigeria
Network of Reproductive Health Journalists of Nigeria, NRHJN
NEWA
Next Initiative for Gender Actions (NIGA)
NGAS Women Farmers’ Cooperative Society
Nigeria Association of Women Journalist (NAWOJ)
Nigeria For Women Project
Nigeria Labour Congress, Women Committee
Nigerian Association of Women Journalist (NAWOJ)
Nigerian Express
Nigerian Women Politics Forum
Nigerian Women Trust Fund (NTWF)
Nkata Ndi Inyom Igbo (NNII)
None for now
Ogayem Merciful Care and Support Initiatives (OMCSI)S
Ogun Women Alive
Okwuzi Women Forum
Olive Community Development Initiatives
Onomese Foundation
Open Arms Initiative for Sustainable Development (OPAISD)
Osi Joe Touching Lives Initiative
Ovie Brume Foundation
OvieBrumeFoundation
Partners West Africa Nigeria
Peasant Dragnet
Princess Olufemi-Kayode
Proactive Gender Initiative (PGI)
Purple Hibiscus Foundation
Quinnipiac University
Ray of Hope Community Foundation
Relief Development Initiative Kaduna
Research Centre (EARC)
Responsible Citizenship and Human Development Initiative
Safe Space Initiative
Save a Child Lend a Hand Foundation
Sesor Empowerment Foundation
She for she Africa Initiative
She Forum Africa
She Mentors Initiative
Shout Global Health
Small-scale Women Farmers Organization of Nigeria (SWOFON)
South- South Professional Women Association.
Stand to End Rape (STER)
Stephanie Peace Building Development Foundation
Support For Needy Children and Women Initiative (SUNCHI)
Taraba State University
TechHerNG
The Guardian Newspapers, Nigeria
The Inclusion Project (TIP)
The Kilimanjaro
The Priceless Jewels
The Purple Foundation
THR Media
Tonia Bruised but Not Broken Foundation
Transformation and Development Center (TDC)
Transition Monitoring Group
Tunde & Friends Foundation (TAFF)
UC Women Commission
UTO Foundation
Vision Spring Initiatives (VSI)
Voice of Ogun Women (VOW)
WEPDN
West African Network for Peace
WEWENETWORK AFRIQUE
Widows Development Organization (WIDO)
WISCAR
Woman-Being Concern Nigeria (WBC)
Women &Youth Awareness Empowerment Network (WOYAEN)
Women Advocacy, HIV Prevention and Other Diseases (WAHPOD)
Women Advocates Research and Documentation Center (WARDC)
Women Aid Collective (WACOL)
Women and Youth Empowerment for Advancement and Health Initiative
Women AT Risk International Foundation(WARIF)
Women Consortium of Nigeria (WOCON)
Women Democracy Network Africa – Nigeria
Women education advocacy and development Initiatives (WEADI)
Women Empowerment and Initiative Development
Women Empowerment and Reproductive Health Centre (WERHC)
Women Empowerment Education and Peace Building Initiative (WEPBI)
Women Environmental Programme (WEP)
Women Farmers Alliance (WFA)
Women for Peace and Gender Equality Initiative (WOPEGEE)
Women for Women International
Women Foundation Initiative (WFI)
Women Foundation of Nigeria (WFN)
Women in Action for Positive Development and Gender Enhancement Center (WAPDAGEC) Women Action Organization (WAO)
Women in Africa Initiative (WIAI)
Women in Agriculture (WIA)
Women in Extractives
Women in Extractives Women in Management Buisness and Public Service (WIMBIZ)
Women in Mining (WIM)
Women in Mining initiative Nigeria
Women Information Network (WINET)
Women Initiative for Democracy and Empowerment (WIDE)
Women Initiative on Climate change
Women Law and Development Initiative (WOLDI)
Women Law Development Center of Nigeria (WLDCN)
Women Lead Agric (WLA)
Women League for Peace and Freedom (WILPF)
Women of Vision Development Initiative
Women Optimum Development Foundation-WODEF
Women Protection Organization (WOPO)
Women Right to Education Programme (WREP)
Women Wing of The Christian Association of Nigeria (WOWICAN)
Women Youth and Children Upliftment Foundation (WYCUT)
Women, Infants and Children Care Initiative (WICCI)
Women, Youths and Children Advancement Program
Women’s Optimum Development Foundation-WODEF
Women’s Crisis Centre Owerri
Women’s Leadership Group (WLG)
Women’s Rights Advancement and Protection Alternative (WRAPA)
Women’s Rights and Health Project (WRAHP)
Women Preneurs (AWEBO)
Womens Crisis Centre Owerri
Working Moms Africa (WMA)
Yiaga Africa
Yeye Adenike Agnes Shobajo Women’s Group Lagos Chamber of Commerce & Industry
Youth Future Savers Initiative (YFSI)
Zonta International Club of Lagos 1