The 2025 edition of the Nigerian Bar Association Section on Legal Practice (NBA SLP) Conference delivered a powerful blend of innovation, insight, and inspiration.
Held amid growing calls for reform and modernization in the legal sector, the conference made one thing abundantly clear: the profession is at a crossroads, and the future belongs to those who are ready to adapt, empower, and innovate.
From start to finish, the conference buzzed with energy. Thought leaders, seasoned practitioners, and rising stars came together to tackle the most pressing challenges facing legal practice today—from technology disruptions and generational shifts to firm culture and talent management.
But if one session truly captured the moment, it was the Fourth Plenary Session, aptly titled:
“Winning the Talent War: How Law Firms Can Attract, Retain and Motivate the Next Generation of Lawyers.”
A Wake-Up Call for the Legal Profession
In today’s world, young lawyers are no longer content with just a prestigious firm name or a competitive paycheck. They are seeking purpose, flexibility, growth, and a genuine sense of belonging. This session brought that truth to the forefront, calling on firms to rethink their approach to leadership, culture, and talent.
Key topics explored included:
What motivates career decisions among younger lawyers
How law firms can build inclusive, balanced, and meaningful work cultures
The evolving role of mentorship and leadership development
Leveraging pay, benefits, and technology in the ongoing talent war
More than just a theoretical discussion, the session delivered practical strategies that law firms can start implementing immediately.
Aare Olumuyiwa Akinboro, SAN: A Voice of Vision
Among the standout voices in the session was Aare Olumuyiwa Akinboro, SAN, whose bold and passionate contributions struck a chord with attendees. He stressed the urgent need for law firms to offer “a journey, not just a job” to young lawyers.
“Attracting the best talent today is about offering a journey, not just a job,” he said.
Akinboro SAN emphasized that today’s legal talents want to be seen, heard, and groomed for leadership. He urged senior lawyers to treat mentorship not as a checkbox, but as a daily investment in people.
He called for:
A shift toward flexible, tech-forward workplaces
A reimagining of mentorship practices
Firm cultures that reflect the values of inclusion and diversity
“The world is changing fast. Law must not be the profession that clings to the past,” he cautioned. “Talent wins where diversity thrives.”
A Celebration of Hope: The Project Bar Ambassador Party
Beyond the serious conversations and policy-driven sessions, the conference also had its joyful moments—none more touching than the Project Bar Ambassador Celebration.
This vibrant gathering honored the young, ambitious lawyers sponsored to attend through the Project Bar Ambassador initiative. It was more than a party—it was a celebration of possibility. There was laughter, storytelling, networking, and inspiration in the air as the next generation of lawyers mingled with industry giants.
For many of these young ambassadors, the experience was transformative—broadening their perspectives, building their confidence, and reaffirming their commitment to a future in law.
Final Thoughts
The NBA SLP Conference 2025 was not just a professional event—it was a call to action. A call to reimagine the legal profession. To invest in the next generation. To build institutions that foster excellence, equity, and innovation.
As the profession confronts rapid change, one thing is clear:
The firms that will win the future are those that invest in people, lead with purpose, and evolve with courage.
