The Nigerian Bar Association Section on Business Law (NBA-SBL) continued its 18th Annual International Business Law Conference on the 27th of June, 2024, marking the first full day of the event. Themed “Survive and THRIVE,” the conference is designed to equip legal practitioners and businesses with the tools and knowledge to navigate the complexities of the modern economic landscape.
The event began with a welcome address from the CPC Chair, Mr. Ose Okpeku. In his opening remarks, Mr. Okpeku emphasized that “Survive and THRIVE” is not just a theme but a positive affirmation and a mantra. He highlighted the organization’s ongoing efforts to create value for its members, ensuring they not only survive but thrive. He urged the speakers to provide honest and critical insights that attendees could use to develop strategies for success.
Following the welcome address, a keynote address was delivered by H.R.H. Dr. Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, OON, represented by Alhaji Suleiman Barau, OON. Dr. Sanusi praised the conference theme, noting its relevance in today’s economy. He discussed the roles of government, businesses, and individuals in fostering survival and growth, emphasizing the need for a mindset shift and cultural change. He also highlighted the importance of cost management in financial planning and encouraged businesses to explore untapped opportunities.
Next, Dr. Tayo Aduloju, CEO of NESG, delivered a guest speech. Dr. Aduloju stressed the importance of delivering measurable and tangible outcomes that positively impact citizens. He noted that for organizations to thrive in this economy, they would need to first stabilize; and for their ideas to yield results, it would need to be properly sequenced.
Following this speech were plenary sessions which covered a range of critical topics:
Plenary One: Capital Markets – Reviving the Nigerian Economy: The Capital Markets to the rescue. This was moderated by Ms. Olubukola Olabiyi, the session featured discussions on reviving the Nigerian economy through capital markets, with insights from experts including Ms. Ummahani Amin, Ms. Mabel Okereke, Ms. Abiola Adekoya, and Ms. Frana Chukwuogor.
Plenary Two: Cultivating prosperity: Is Agriculture our lifeline? This session was moderated by Mr. Fidelis Adewole, this session explored strategies and banking infrastructures that can be adopted to promote agricultural storage in Nigeria. Speakers included Dr. Kabir Yusuf, Sen. Saliu Mustapha, Mr. Aminu Nyako, and Ms. Affiong Williams.
Plenary Three: Tech & Innovation: Twin tools for surviving and thriving. This session, moderated by Mr. Basil Udotai, focused on how technology and innovation can help legal practitioners and businesses survive and thrive. Panelists included Mr. Adeleke Alex-Adedipe, Mr. Kazeem Oladepo, Mr. Muyiwa Matuluko, and Ms. Sumbo Akintola.
Plenary Four: Legal Practice Management: Prospects and challenges for legal practice in Nigeria. Moderated by Mrs. Rebecca Ebokpo, this session addressed the prospects and challenges of legal practice in Nigeria. Attendees were urged to work towards offering so much value in their career such that it meets international standards. Esteemed speakers such as Mr. George Etomi, Ambassador Yonov Fred Agah, Ms. Taiwo Afonja, and Mr. Defolu Olufon shared their perspectives on this.
The day concluded with the recognition of sponsors, closing remarks, and the much-anticipated “Lawyers Got Talent 2.0,” which showcased the diverse talents within the legal community.
As the conference progresses to Day 2, which doubles as the final day, participants can anticipate more insightful discussions, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities. The NBA-SBL remains committed to providing a platform for legal professionals to exchange knowledge and ideas, fostering growth and innovation in the field of business law.
For further information and updates on the conference, visit the NBA-SBL website at www.nbasbl.org or contact the Conference Secretariat at info@nbasbl.org. Follow us on social media platforms to stay updated. Please visit NBA-SBL on Instagram – @nbasbl and Twitter – @nbasblofficial.