GOODWILL MESSAGE TO THE NIGERIAN BAR ASSOCIATION, CALABAR BRANCH, ON THE OCCASION OF THE 2026 BAR WEEK

The Distinguished Chairman, Executives, Elders, and Members of the Doyen Bar

I extend my compliments and felicitations to the Nigerian Bar Association, Calabar Branch, on the occasion of the 2026 Bar Week scheduled to hold from April 15 to 19, 2026, in Calabar, Cross River State.

The theme for this year’s Bar Week, “Rule of Law: Safeguarding Democracy, Ensuring Accountability,” is both timely and compelling. At a period when the nation is engaged with the implementation of the Electoral Act 2026 and preparing for the 2027 general elections, the Calabar Branch has demonstrated commendable foresight by providing a forum for robust engagement on the role of law in sustaining democratic governance and institutional accountability. This reaffirms the Bar’s enduring position as the conscience of the nation.

The programme of activities — including the Technical Sessions, Legal Clinic & Outreach, Sports & Wellness, and the Grand Banquet — reflects a deliberate balance between professional development, community service, member welfare, and collegial fellowship. It is evident that considerable effort has been devoted to curating an agenda that serves both the intellectual and institutional interests of the Bar.

As distinguished legal practitioners, stakeholders, and policy influencers convene in Calabar, it is my hope that the deliberations will be incisive, the fellowship rewarding, and the resolutions adopted will contribute meaningfully to the advancement of justice and the rule of law.

I convey my best wishes to the Chairman, the Executive Committee, the Elders, and all members of the NBA Calabar Branch for a successful, impactful, and memorable 2026 Bar Week.

Long live the Doyen Bar.
Long live the Nigerian Bar Association.
Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Yours faithfully,

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