Distinguished Colleagues.

The 2019 Workers Day calls for introspection on the role of the Nigerian worker in nation building. There is an increasing need for transparency, accountability and integrity in the public and private sectors.
Going forward, 2019 should be a year of positive action by all stakeholders if we are to achieve any meaningful development goals.

With regards to the judiciary, we call on the Federal and State governments to make the financial autonomy of the judiciary a priority to ensure true judicial independence. We commend the acting Chief Justice of Nigeria on his call for the execution of the Judicial Information Technology Policy. The implementation of the policy will aid access to justice and speed up the litigation process.

We also call on the Judicial Service Commissions to implement better and improved conditions of service and welfare packages for workers in the Justice sector.

More importantly, I enjoin Principals, Heads of Chambers and Lawpreneurs to subscribe to policies and programs that provide basic health insurance as well as continuing education and capacity development for legal and paralegal staff, especially for young lawyers. We invite more lawyers to take advantage of our Lawyers Health Insurance Plan and our various continuing education programs as we build a vibrant and strong profession.

Finally, I wish you a fruitful Workers Day celebration and a great month ahead.

Folarin Aluko
Chairman
NBA Abuja Branch (Unity Bar)
Follow the NBA Abuja on Twitter and Instagram @nbaabuja