The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Yobe State Branch, embarked on a new chapter with the inauguration of its newly elected executive committee on Saturday, marking the commencement of a two-year term for the nine-member team. This transition of leadership signifies a pivotal moment for the legal community in Yobe State, as the incoming officials assume the responsibility of steering the association towards continued growth, development, and the enhancement of its members’ welfare. The inauguration ceremony served as a platform to recognize the achievements of the outgoing administration and to set the tone for the incoming leadership’s agenda.
The outgoing Chairperson, Altine Ibrahim, reflected on her tenure, highlighting key accomplishments that have shaped the NBA Yobe State Branch. Among these achievements, the conception of the NBA Bar Center Project stands out as a significant milestone. Named after Governor Mai Mala Buni, the project envisions a modern facility designed to provide a conducive working environment for legal professionals. The planned center will include conference halls, a library, and training facilities, all aimed at fostering professional development and collaboration within the legal community. Ibrahim’s leadership also navigated challenges, including the unfortunate invasion of the Chief Magistrate Court in Potiskum, an incident that was met with strong condemnation from the Bar.
Ibrahim expressed gratitude to various stakeholders who played crucial roles in supporting the branch’s initiatives. She acknowledged the Yobe State Government for its partnership and support, recognizing the government’s contributions to legal empowerment programs, capacity building initiatives, and welfare support for legal professionals. She also extended her appreciation to senior colleagues within the legal profession and other partners who collaborated with the branch on public interest interventions, highlighting the importance of collective efforts in advancing access to justice and promoting the rule of law.
The newly inaugurated Chairman, Ahmad Khalifa, addressed the gathering, outlining his commitment to upholding the principles of fairness and impartiality in the discharge of his duties. He pledged to adhere strictly to the established regulations and guidelines governing the NBA, emphasizing his dedication to serving the legal community with integrity and professionalism. Magistrate Court Judge Abdullahi Saleh Samanja presided over the oath-taking ceremony, formally investing the new executive committee with the authority and responsibilities of their respective offices.
The composition of the newly elected executive committee reflects a diverse range of legal professionals, each bringing their unique expertise and experience to the leadership of the NBA Yobe State Branch. The team includes Ahmad Khalifa as Chairman, Buba Mohammed as Vice Chairman, Abba Mustapha Maina as Secretary, Ali Suleiman Kadai as Assistant Secretary, Maryam Idrissa Bamai as Treasurer, AbdulMalik Isa as Financial Secretary, Idriss M. Suleiman as Welfare Officer, Muhammad Bukar as Public Secretary, and Baba Umar Nuhu as Provost. This collective of legal minds is tasked with representing the interests of the legal community in Yobe State, advocating for the advancement of the legal profession, and promoting access to justice for all citizens.
The incoming executives were urged to embrace the solemnity of their oath of office and to uphold the promises they made during their campaign. The advice emphasized the importance of decorum and adherence to the principles of ethical conduct in all their dealings. The new leadership is expected to act as custodians of the legal profession, upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism while diligently serving the interests of their members and the broader community. The inauguration ceremony marked not only a transition of leadership but also a renewed commitment to the values and principles that underpin the legal profession in Yobe State.
