NBA-YLF advocates innovation, mentorship for young lawyers

The Nigerian Bar Association Young Lawyers Forum (NBA-YLF), Ilorin Branch, has stressed the need for innovation, collaboration and mentorship among young legal practitioners as the profession continues to evolve.

The call was made on Thursday during the forum’s 2026 Law Retreat held in Ilorin, with the theme, “Charting the Course: Young Lawyers’ Journey, Innovation and Collaboration.”

Chairperson of the retreat planning committee, Halimah Akanbi Jatto, said the programme was designed to address emerging trends in the legal profession and equip young lawyers with the skills needed to remain relevant in a rapidly changing environment.

According to her, clients now demand more than legal expertise, expecting lawyers to demonstrate innovation, strategic thinking and practical problem-solving abilities.

She noted that young lawyers must continuously adapt to changes in the profession rather than remain static.

Delivering the keynote address, Lukman Oyebanji Fagbemi, SAN, highlighted the growing impact of technological innovations, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), on legal practice.

Fagbemi said AI has significantly improved efficiency by enabling lawyers to complete tasks that previously required several hours within a much shorter period.

He, however, cautioned against excessive reliance on technology, stressing that innovation should complement, not replace, a lawyer’s competence, integrity and professional judgment.

The Senior Advocate of Nigeria also underscored the importance of collaboration, especially in specialised fields such as finance, oil and gas, and engineering.

He urged lawyers to work closely with professionals in other sectors to deliver effective and comprehensive services to clients.

While encouraging young lawyers to embrace technological advancements, Fagbemi advised them to do so within the confines of the law and established professional standards.

Speaking at the event, Chairman of NBA-YLF, Ilorin Branch, Imam-Fulani Abdulateef, said the retreat was organised to provide young lawyers with opportunities for professional development and mentorship.

He said mentorship remains essential for career growth, particularly for lawyers navigating the early stages of their professional journey.

Abdulateef encouraged young practitioners to seek guidance from experienced colleagues who can help shape their careers and support them in achieving their professional aspirations.

“Ilorin Bar has a rich legacy of producing brilliant minds and fearless advocates,” he said. “The responsibility to sustain and advance the legacy rests on us, the young lawyers.”

The retreat featured panel discussions on contemporary legal issues and presentations of awards to notable Nigerians in recognition of their contributions to society.