The launch of the NBA Young Lawyers Co – Working Space at the National Secretariat in Abuja marks a quiet but significant turning point for young lawyers across Nigeria. Beyond bricks and furniture, it represents something more enduring: a deliberate investment in access, dignity, and opportunity within our profession.

For many young lawyers, particularly those navigating unemployment, underemployment, or the early uncertainty of practice the absence of a professional workspace is a real barrier. It limits client engagement, collaboration, visibility, and often deepens the sense of disconnection from the Bar. This initiative speaks directly to that lived reality. By providing a functional, professional environment to work, meet clients, collaborate with peers, and remain anchored to the profession, the Nigerian Bar Association has addressed a need that truly matters.

I commend the Nigerian Bar Association, under the leadership of Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, for translating empathy into action.

This project reflects a consistent leadership style that I have believed that young lawyers do not need pity but access and and listening to the profession’s pulse we must respond with practical solutions.

I extend special appreciation to my brother Chief James Onoja, SAN, for providing substantial support in the kick of this facility, your kind gesture demonstrates a deep, personal commitment to strengthening the Bar from the ground up.

Such acts of service remind us that leadership is measured not only by office, but by impact.

I must profoundly state that Naming the space after Kanu Agabi, CON, SAN, is especially fitting. His enduring legacy of pioneering the provision of free work spaces to young lawyers for decades, mentorship, ethical advocacy, and service captures the very values this space should inspire in every young lawyer who walks through its doors, with excellence anchored in integrity.

As a profession, we must continue to build pathways that make the practice of law more inclusive, humane, and forward looking.

Sustaining initiatives like this, and expanding them across branches nationwide, will be the true test of our collective commitment to the welfare and future of young lawyers.
These steps reaffirm that the future of the Bar is not an abstract ideal, but a responsibility, one that requires thoughtful investment today.

On behalf of many who will benefit, I say thank you to the Nigerian Bar Association for this timely and meaningful intervention.

Aare Olumuyiwa Akinboro, SAN.
Life Bencher, FCIMC
Past General Secretary Nigerian Bar Association.