Jaiyeola Unveils ‘Strategic Publicity’ Blueprint, Targets NBA Rebranding, Better Member Communication

Lukman Oladimeji Jaiyeola, a candidate for the office of Assistant Publicity Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), has unveiled a manifesto anchored on what he describes as “Strategic Publicity,” promising to strengthen the Association’s public image, modernize its communication systems, and deepen engagement with members across the country.

In the eight-page manifesto, Jaiyeola presents a vision that goes beyond the traditional responsibilities of the office, arguing that the Assistant Publicity Secretary should play an active role in shaping the NBA’s reputation through strategic communication, digital innovation, and coordinated public relations efforts.

According to him, the credibility of the legal profession depends not only on the work of lawyers but also on how effectively the Association communicates its activities, values and interventions to both members and the wider public.

“The Bar must create a positive public perception and I strongly believe that with the aid of social media, a whole lot can be achieved in this regard,” he stated.

Jaiyeola, a Senior Partner at Granith Solicitor, Ikorodu, highlighted his legal practice, human rights advocacy and years of service within the NBA as the foundation of his candidature. He noted that, as Founder and Executive Director of the Centre for Human Rights and Welfare Advocacy, he has facilitated the release of more than 400 inmates from correctional facilities, handled over 100 pro bono cases and volunteered with more than 20 non-governmental organisations, including Amnesty International and the Legal Defence and Assistance Project (LEDAP).

The Ikorodu Branch lawyer also pointed to his previous roles within the NBA, including serving as Young Lawyers’ Forum Publicity Secretary, Assistant Secretary of the branch, and later Branch Publicity Secretary, alongside several committee assignments, as evidence of his preparedness for national office.

At the heart of the manifesto is a two-pronged agenda built on “Rebranding” and “Communication.” Jaiyeola said the NBA’s image can be significantly enhanced through improved digital engagement, stronger collaboration among branch publicity secretaries, and more consistent interaction with traditional and digital media.

Among his proposals are improvements to the NBA website and Digital App, expansion of the Lawyers’ Portal with feedback features, increased activity across social media platforms, periodic media engagement sessions, enhanced use of the NBA Blog, and the creation of an NBA Online TV channel on YouTube to increase the Association’s visibility.

On internal communication, the manifesto advocates stronger collaboration among branch publicity secretaries, the establishment of evaluation mechanisms for publicity efforts, expanded email communication systems, dedicated member helplines, timely dissemination of opportunities available to lawyers, and regular updates on the activities of the NBA, its branches, sections and fora.

Externally, Jaiyeola proposed closer engagement with other professional bodies, consistent communication of the NBA’s mission and values, greater public awareness campaigns on issues affecting the legal profession, and sustained media advocacy for human rights and the rule of law.

He also pledged to support the timely issuance of press statements on matters affecting the Association while amplifying the voices of vulnerable communities and victims of injustice through strategic media engagement.

The candidate further called for greater integration of communication across the NBA’s branches, sections, fora and specialised practice groups, arguing that stronger collaboration would improve participation in Association programmes and maximise opportunities available to members nationwide.

Jaiyeola maintained that the office of Assistant Publicity Secretary should not merely function as a supporting role but as an enabler of the NBA President’s communication agenda, helping to sustain the Association’s visibility through strategic planning, professionalism and the effective deployment of technology.

“I offer myself to serve not with ambition for title, but with a deep conviction that we all bear the responsibility of building the NBA into an enviable association,” he said, expressing confidence that improved internal and external communication would strengthen the NBA’s public perception and institutional effectiveness.

The manifesto, themed “The Strategic Manifesto,” is built around the campaign slogans #StrategicPublicity, #KeepingYouInformed, and #RebrandingTheImage, reflecting Jaiyeola’s emphasis on communication as a strategic tool for advancing the objectives of the Nigerian Bar Association.