Enugu, the historic capital of the old Eastern Region, is buzzing with activity as over 20,000 legal professionals, led by former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo and South African political firebrand Julius Malema, converge for the 2025 Annual General Conference (AGC) of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), which kicks off officially on Sunday.
Ahead of the grand opening, NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, led a massive health walk through the major roads of Enugu on Saturday, energizing the atmosphere as thousands of participants continued arriving in the city.
Speaking to journalists, Osigwe described Enugu as the perfect setting for this year’s theme, “Stand Out, Stand Tall.”
“Enugu is not just the capital of the South East; it is a city of beauty, peace, and hospitality,” he said. “We chose Enugu because it reflects the spirit of this conference. We are here to learn, connect, and contribute to Nigeria’s growth—and to experience the warmth of the people.”
He confirmed that keynote speaker Julius Malema had arrived in Lagos and was expected in Enugu by Sunday, alongside Chief Obasanjo, who will chair the opening ceremony.
“We are ready. Everything is in place to give participants a world-class experience. Enugu is set, and this will be a conference to remember,” Osigwe declared.
Backing this up, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, highlighted the state’s strategic readiness under Governor Peter Mbah.
“The Mbah administration has long envisioned Enugu as a hub for conferences and tourism,” Onyia said. “Even before the NBA made its choice, we had already begun positioning the state for events of this scale.”
He pointed to recent developments that support this vision, including the launch of Enugu Air, the deployment of 100 CNG buses, new transport terminals, and the revitalization of the iconic Hotel Presidential.
“We want visitors to move easily, feel safe, and enjoy the experience so much they want to come back. The NBA made the right choice,” Onyia affirmed.
Participants are already expressing delight at the city’s transformation. Barrister Favour Abraham from Minna, Niger State, shared her excitement.
“This is my second NBA conference in Enugu the last was 20 years ago in 2005. I must say, the city has changed beautifully,” she said. “From the airport, Enugu State CNG buses were waiting. The people are welcoming. We’re here to learn, grow, and enjoy everything Enugu has to offer from okpa to isiewu and abacha!”
As the 2025 NBA AGC kicks off, all eyes are on Enugu now standing tall on the national stage.
