Legal Updates

Advancing Inclusivity: Afam Osigwe, SAN, Takes Center Stage at NBA Lawyers with Disabilities Forum Annual Conference

“Public Interest Litigation is not just a legal strategy; it’s a powerful force for societal change. We’ve witnessed its impact in dismantling discriminatory practices and ensuring equal opportunities.”

Published

5 months ago

December 9, 2023

Stella Charles Akupue

Advancing Inclusivity: Afam Osigwe, SAN, Takes Center Stage at NBA Lawyers with Disabilities Forum Annual Conference

Introduction:

In an inspiring showcase of commitment to inclusivity, Afam Osigwe, SAN, played a central role at the 2023 annual conference of the Nigerian Bar Association Lawyers with Disabilities Forum.

His involvement was marked by delivering a compelling goodwill message and actively participating as a distinguished panellist in a session that delved into “The Nigerian Bar Association: The Journey to an Inclusive Bar.”

Key Points:

1. Active Advocacy for Lawyers With Disabilities: Osigwe’s engagement surpassed mere rhetoric as he delved into how the NBA can actively uplift lawyers with disabilities (LWD) professionally. While acknowledging the commendable steps taken by the President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau, OON, SAN, in addressing issues related to colleagues with disabilities, Osigwe emphasized the need for the NBA to fervently advocate for an enabling environment that universally facilitates the employment of lawyers with disabilities.

He underscored the importance of the NBA leveraging its platform for robust advocacy to dismantle barriers hindering the professional growth of lawyers with disabilities.

NBA-LWDF 2023 Annual Conference: A Message from Blessing Udofa-Poromon

2. Proactive Approach and Public Interest Litigation: Osigwe called for the NBA to adopt a proactive approach, integrating an agenda specifically tailored to address the challenges faced by lawyers with disabilities. He highlighted the potency of public interest litigation as a powerful tool to champion the rights and interests of this demographic, thus advancing inclusivity within the legal profession.

Quote from Osigwe: “Our commitment should not be passive; we must actively advocate for an environment where the talents and capabilities of lawyers with disabilities are recognized and utilized.”

A standout point in Osigwe’s stance was the call for the NBA to be recognized as an institution for standing up for defined principles. He emphasized the significance of the association’s consistency in its commitment to inclusivity, advocating for clear guidelines addressing the needs of lawyers with disabilities at every juncture.

Addressing Specific Challenges: To underscore the challenges faced by lawyers with disabilities, Osigwe presented real-life case studies and examples. He highlighted issues such as limited accessibility, bias, and inadequate accommodations, emphasizing the urgency to address these hurdles.

Conclusion: Osigwe’s contributions reflect a broader narrative of transforming the legal landscape into a space where diversity is actively supported, not just acknowledged. His insights at the conference underscored the vital role that influential figures within the legal community can play in steering the profession toward a more inclusive and equitable future.

Embracing this call to action, the learned silk significantly contributes to reshaping the narrative of the Nigerian Bar Association, aligning it with a more inclusive vision where lawyers with disabilities not only find accommodation but thrive professionally.

Additional Resources:

NBA Lawyers with Disabilities Forum – Learn more about the forum’s initiatives and objectives.
Challenges Faced by Lawyers with Disabilities – Explore articles outlining the hurdles and opportunities for lawyers with disabilities in the legal field.
Importance of Public Interest Litigation – Delve into the role of public interest litigation in advancing social justice and inclusivity.

Pictures taken during the conference: