Goodwill Message to the NBA Western Zone Human Rights Summit 2026

I extend my warm congratulations to the 2nd Vice President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Mrs. Bolatunmi Animashaun, and the leadership of the Western Zone Branches on the hosting of the 2026 Human Rights Summit in Benin City.

This year’s theme, “Access to Justice for Women, Children, Victims of Human Trafficking and Persons Living with Disabilities,” speaks directly to the heart of our professional duty. It challenges us to move beyond rhetoric and confront the structural barriers that keep the most vulnerable at the margins of justice.

As lawyers, we are custodians of the rule of law and guardians of human dignity. A society is only as just as its treatment of those least able to defend themselves. This summit provides a timely platform to interrogate gaps in policy, share practical strategies, and strengthen collaboration across the bar, bench, and civil society.

I commend the organizers for convening this critical conversation and for their commitment to shaping actionable outcomes. May the deliberations be robust, the resolutions impactful, and the advocacy that follows sustained.

Wishing you a successful summit and fruitful engagement.

Yours sincerely,

Audrey Chinelo Ofoegbunam, Esq, ACIArb(UK), ANICArb, ACIS, AICMC, ACTI.