The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Yenagoa Branch, officially commenced its 2026 Law Week on Friday, 29th May 2026, at the Penthouse of the Main High Court Complex, Yenagoa. The event, which attracted members of the press, legal luminaries, and prominent Nigerians, was marked by a press conference addressed by the Branch Chairman, Mr. Clement Bibisa Kekemeke.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Kekemeke expressed gratitude to the key individuals and institutions whose support has been critical to the growth and accomplishments of the Branch.
Special recognition was given to the Chairman of the Law Week Plenary Session, former President of Nigeria, His Excellency Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR, GCON, for making adjustments to chair the session. The NBA also acknowledged the keynote speaker, Professor PLO Lumumba, for accepting the invitation despite his demanding schedule.
The Branch further thanked the Bayelsa State Government, led by Governor Senator Douye Diri, for its unwavering support and partnership, describing it as instrumental to the Branch’s growth.
Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, PhD, Honourable Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), was also lauded for his dedication to public service and support for the legal profession, particularly in establishing the Chief October Lokpobiri Bar Centre at the State High Court Complex.
The NBA Yenagoa Branch also expressed appreciation to the Chief Judge of Bayelsa State, Hon. Justice Matilda Abrakasa Ayemieye, the Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Hon. Biriyai Dambo, SAN, as well as corporate partners including High Chief Matthew Tonlagha of Maton Engineering Nigeria Limited and Chief Dr. Samuel Ogbuku of the Niger Delta Development Commission. The contributions of the Plenary Session panelists—including Justice B.M. Ugo of the Court of Appeal, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, Dele Adesina, SAN, and others—were recognized for their expertise and support.
The 2026 Law Week, themed “Securing the Future”, underscores the legal profession’s role in safeguarding society, constitutional order, and national stability. “At a time when governance structures, public trust, and democratic institutions are under mounting strain, the theme calls upon the Bar to transcend technical practice and embrace its role as an active steward of society,” Mr. Kekemeke stated.
Professor PLO Lumumba will deliver the keynote address on “Sustainable National Assets Protection in Africa: Opportunities, Risks and Regulatory Pathways”, offering a continental perspective on governance, regulatory compliance, and public accountability. The plenary session, titled “National Assets Protection: Nigeria’s Shared Responsibility”, will also feature discussions on the collaboration between statutory organizations, the Nigerian Navy, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, and private security operators.
Other highlights of the Law Week include the annual Law Dinner on Saturday, 6th June 2026, at MASC Haven Event Centre, designed for networking, knowledge sharing, and engagement with industry leaders. In line with social responsibility, the Branch will host a legal clinic in Yenagoa–Ovom Community and visit Martha’s Home for the Elderly.
The NBA Yenagoa Branch emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law and protecting human rights. Mr. Kekemeke also addressed rising concerns over police brutality, noting that the NBA, through its Human Rights Committee, will continue to advocate for justice and accountability.
The Law Week plenary session is scheduled for Friday, 5th June 2026, at the Nigerian Content Development Monitoring Board (NCDMB) Conference Hall, providing participants with a state-of-the-art environment to engage fully with the program.
Mr. Kekemeke concluded by urging all participants to take full advantage of the week’s activities, describing the event as an opportunity to advance legal knowledge, uphold justice, and collectively secure the future of Nigeria.
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