Today a new chapter opens in the annals of the Legal Profession in Nigeria with the inauguration of the first elected female President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Mrs Oyinkansola Badejo-Okunsoya, SAN.
I congratulate her on this historic accomplishment. I also wish to commend Mazi Afam J. Osigwe, SAN, the immediate past President of the NBA for his achievements & the successful transition to a new Leadership of the Bar in Nigeria. The Legal Profession must continue promote the cause of justice & progress in our fledging democracy.
Inspite of the challenges, the NBA has continued to play its role in defending the administration of justice particularly the independence of the judiciary.
At this crucial stage of another democratic transition, the NBA must rise up to its abiding responsibility while also consolidating on the programs of the bar aimed at ensuring sanity in the profession and enforcing the regime of appropriate remuneration of Legal Practitioners in Nigeria. Once again congratulations Madam #NBAPresident.
Samson R. OSAGIE, Ph.D,FICMC Former Attorney General, Edo State
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, on Thursday joined the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, at the presentation of financial support to families of fallen heroes of the Armed Forces and the Nigeria Police Force.
The event, organised by the Office of the First Lady through the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Social Investment Programme, was held at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
This second edition of the initiative targeted families of security personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty since the inception of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
A total of 1,638 families of deceased police officers received financial empowerment packages aimed at helping them rebuild their livelihoods and cater for their dependants.
The ceremony was also attended by the Wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shettima; Wife of the Senate President, Mrs. Ekaette Unoma Akpabio; Service Chiefs; the President of the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA); and wives of heads of security agencies.
Speaking at the event, IGP Disu expressed appreciation to President Tinubu and the First Lady for the intervention, describing it as a demonstration of national gratitude and compassion.
“The Renewed Hope Initiative goes beyond policy. It is about restoring dignity and supporting citizens at vulnerable moments,” the IGP said.
He assured the bereaved families that the sacrifices of their loved ones would never be forgotten, and reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to prioritising the welfare of its personnel and providing continued support to families of officers who paid the ultimate price.
Sovereign wealth is a pool of a sovereign nation’s financial assets and resources managed and invested for savings, economicstabilization and infrastructural development.
For Nigeria, the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority is charged with the mandate to manage its sovereign wealth fund
The fund is set up to secure long-term prosperity for the nation beyond short-term revenue and government expenditure cycles.
At the this year’s Nigerian Bar Association Annual General Conference (NBA-AGC 2026), the former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice,Edo State Dr. Samson Osagie said the fund which must be managed with sound governance principles and transparency has the capacity to grow beyond $3.44 billion which it is currently and urged government to harness all necessary revenue sources particularly the mineral resources which are been exploited in some parts of the by private individuals in connivance with their foreign partners without been accounted for in the national revenue pool.
Dr. Osagie spoke on the topic that sovereign wealth exists to manage fluctuating sources of national revenue and convert them into lasting economic value as Its purpose is to save during periods of high income, stabilize public finance when earnings fall, and diversify Nigeria’s wealth beyond a single source. He tied this directly to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, stressing that sovereign wealth must drive sustainable growth, resilient infrastructure, decent work, and responsible use of national resources.
The core idea, he said, is to convert revenue from finite or fluctuating resources into assets that generate value over the long term. That shift moves Nigeria from dependence on narrow income streams to a broader, more sustainable economic base.
On ownership and structure, Dr. Osagie noted that sovereign wealth covers stabilization funds and savings or future generation andinfrastructure funds. But it is the law that gives it meaning. The law defines ownership, control, mandate and objectives of the fun. The laws lays down the parameters for receiving, investing and withdrawing funds, and the governance structure of the institution(NSIA)
He described sovereign wealth as unique in the financial system because it combines public ownership, investment activity, and national development objectives or goals. It functions as both capital and an institutional vehicle, working with securities, fund managers, stock brokers and other professionals under financial regulation. Key partners he identified include the World Bank Group, IMF and the CBN for monetary coordination and surveillance.
Dr Samson Osagie with the NBA-AGC President Mazi Afam Osigwe at the NBA,AGC conference
To strengthen Nigeria’s Sovereign wealth architecture, Dr. Osagie urged adoption of elements of the Norwegian investment model for a disciplined contributions to the Nigerian SWF and diversified, long-term investments for substantial returns. He stressed the need for financial strength, capital adequacy, quality investment management, and strong research and advisory capacity.
He concluded with a charge: Sovereign wealth can convert current wealth into long-term prosperity through fiscal stability and infrastructure. But it must remain a long-term national trust, not a pool for short-term political spending. The government must prioritize strategic investments that expand productive capacity, infrastructure and employment nationwide.
On a final note,Dr. Osagie left the NBA-AGC 2026 with one demand: protect the fund with law, run it with expertise, fund it adequately, adopt global best practices and keep politics out of it. That is how it can enable sustainable economic development for the future of Nigeria.
There is a certain irony in watching a man whose capacity was once deemed expendable at home emerge as a voice of consequence on a national professional stage.
Samson Raphael Osagie, PhD, FICMC—former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice of Edo State—is not a man whose credentials require embellishment. His record, intellect, experience and professional standing speak with sufficient authority.
Yet, his departure from public office was handled in a manner that many considered unbefitting of a man of his calibre and contribution.
But history has a way of correcting the limitations of political judgement.
While some at home may have sought to diminish his relevance, the wider professional community has continued to recognise his value. Today, that recognition is on full display as he takes the stage as a Speaker at the Nigerian Bar Association Annual General Conference (NBA-AGC) 2026, under the theme, “Beyond Limits ’26.”
This is more than an invitation to speak. It is professional validation.
It is a reminder that competence does not become irrelevant because political circumstances change; intellectual capacity does not disappear because an appointment ends; and a man of substance does not cease to matter because those in a position to recognise his worth choose otherwise.
From Uhunmwode to Edo South, and from Edo State to the national professional arena, Samson Raphael Osagie continues to demonstrate that genuine excellence ultimately finds its platform.
You may edge a man out of office, but you cannot easily edge excellence out of relevance.
Congratulations to Samson Raphael Osagie, PhD, FICMC.
Edo South should celebrate him. Uhunmwode should own his achievement. Edo State should recognise the distinction.
When excellence is recognised beyond home, perhaps home should pause—not to ask why the man is being celebrated elsewhere, but why his value was not celebrated enough at home.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Mr. Abel Olumuyiwa Enitan as the new Head of the Civil Service of the Federation.
The appointment takes effect from August 27, 2026.
This was announced in a statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga
Mr. Enitan, the most senior Permanent Secretary in the Federal Civil Service and an indigene of Osun State, will succeed Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, who is set to retire upon attaining the statutory retirement age of 60.
President Tinubu expressed deep appreciation to Mrs. Walson-Jack for her distinguished service, noting the reforms, impact, and innovations recorded in the Civil Service during her tenure.
With over seven years as Permanent Secretary, Mr. Enitan has served in the Ministry of Police Affairs, the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, the Office of the Vice President, and currently the Federal Ministry of Education.
The statement added that Mr. Enitan “brings considerable institutional experience and a deep understanding of how the Federal Civil Service works to his new responsibility.”
As Head of Service, he is expected to provide leadership for the Federal Civil Service and deepen ongoing reforms to enhance efficiency, professionalism, and service delivery in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Principal Partner of Samson Ima-Osagie & Associates and former Attorney General of Edo State, Dr. Samson Raphael Osagie, has been invited to speak at the 66th Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, themed “Beyond Limits.”
In an invitation signed by the Chairman of the Annual General Conference Planning Committee, AGCPC, Abdul Mohammed, SAN, and the Secretary, Barbara Omosun, the NBA listed Osagie among the distinguished speakers selected for the 2026 edition.
He will serve as a panelist on the topic “Sovereign Wealth” and its role in driving Nigeria’s long-term economic development.
The conference will hold from August 21 to 28, 2026, at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium, Elekahia, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
According to the association, the gathering will bring together jurists, policymakers, business leaders and industry experts to interrogate pressing national and global issues. These include economic growth, reforms in the legal sector, trade expansion, foreign exchange regulation and Nigeria’s global competitiveness.
The session will focus on how sovereign wealth funds and strategic investments can be deployed to promote sustainable growth, finance critical infrastructure, attract capital and strengthen economic resilience.
“As Nigeria pursues economic diversification and sustainable growth, strategic investment decisions have become more crucial than ever,” the invitation stated.
The NBA added that the session will provide a platform for in-depth dialogue on the legal, policy and governance frameworks required to support sound investment strategies, while also exploring practical pathways to secure prosperity for future generations.
The week-long conference will feature a keynote address by former Liberian President, George Weah, alongside other prominent speakers from Nigeria and overseas.
The invitation affirmed the association’s confidence in Dr. Osagie’s expertise and expressed optimism that his contribution will add value to discussions on strategic investments and national economic transformation.
Beyond the technical sessions, delegates are expected to participate in professional networking, peer learning, conversations on social justice, as well as entertainment and interactive programmes throughout the conference.
Dr Osagie’s participation as discussant at this all important professional conference is an acknowledgement of his recognition by the National professional body as a key figure with requisite knowledge and experience in Nigeria’s governance system.
…as IGP Disu deploys 7 other CPs in nationwide shake-up
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, has approved the deployment of CP Patrick Daaor as the new Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command.
The deployment was announced on Thursday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, following approval by the Police Service Commission. CP Daaor takes over from CP Betty Enekpen Otimenyin, who was redeployed from Edo, while the outgoing CP Funsho Adegboye Agbonika had been serving in acting capacity before the new posting.
According to the statement, the shake-up also affected 7 other state commands and several strategic formations.
Other newly deployed CPs are:
CP Afolabi Wilfred Olutokunbo– Abia
CP Ayodeji Faniyan – Plateau
CP Saka Adewale Ajao – Bayelsa
CP Ajo Geoffrey Ordue– Cross River
CP Nanna Oji Ama– Anambra
CP Tani Murtala– Jigawa
CP Samuel Erale – Delta
The IGP also approved postings to key departments including Force Intelligence Department, FCID, DFA, DTD, Police Academy and Police Staff College.
In his charge, IGP Disu urged the senior officers to strengthen intelligence-led policing, enhance operational effectiveness, promote professionalism and deepen community engagement.
“He urged them to remain steadfast in safeguarding lives and property while upholding the highest standards of discipline, accountability, and service delivery,” the statement said.
The Force noted that the redeployment is part of ongoing reforms to boost efficiency and improve policing nationwide.
Former Attorney General of Edo State, Dr. Samson Osagie, on Sunday said persons convicted under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act should serve their full sentences to deter others.
Speaking in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria,( NAN), Dr. Osagie said the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, was enacted to provide a legal framework for the detection, prevention, prosecution and punishment of acts of terrorism in Nigeria. He noted public concerns over the possibility of convicted terrorists being granted amnesty through executive orders.
He further disclosed there was a need to amend the Act and Section 175 of the Constitution on prerogative of mercy to exclude persons convicted of terrorism or terrorism-related offences. “It has become pertinent to recommend that the Act be further amended to exclude such persons from benefiting from presidential clemency during the pendency of their jail term,” he said.
Also speaking, former NBA Young Lawyers Forum Chairman, Mr. Uwomano Aki, described terrorism as “a direct attack on the sovereignty, security, and collective existence of the nation.” He said where a court has found an accused guilty after a fair trial, granting executive clemency later is difficult to justify.
Similarly, a member of the NBA, Mrs. Adaobi Fortune, said any consideration of amnesty for convicted terrorists must be guided by overriding national interest. “The sovereignty of Nigeria and interests of its citizens should override every other consideration,” she said.
Also, President of the African Women Lawyers Association, Mrs. Amanda Demechi-Asagba, said the law already contains safeguards against the release of terrorists sentenced to life. She explained that under the 2022 Act, life imprisonment means an offender remains in prison for life unless the sentence is overturned on appeal or altered by pardon. She called for a further amendment requiring terrorism convicts to spend at least 30 years before being considered for clemency.
This unanimous call by legal experts underscores growing public demand for tougher measures against terrorisms as they argued that denying convicted terrorists access to clemency will not only uphold justice for victims but also strengthen national security and reinforce the resolve to stamp out terrorism from Nigeria.
Former Edo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Samson Osagie, has said the proposed bill to establish State Police in Nigeria could improve response to insecurity, but must be backed by strong legal frameworks and accountability
Speaking in an interview on the Frontiers, an NTA International Program, Dr. Osagie said the issue has generated intense national debate, with Nigerians divided on whether decentralising policing is the solution to the country’s security challenges.
According to him the Greek Proverb days “Necessity is usually the mother of all inventions,” Dr Samson Osagie said “After over a decade of battling insecurity, banditry, terrorism, and other forms of criminalities, it has become pertinent to explore new measures to end or minimize to the barest minimum the problemsof insecurity”
The former Federal Lawmaker also noted that Nigeria has been bedevilled by numerous security challenges under the current centralised police structure. He observed that state governments do not have control over the security architecture within their states, and as a result, government must “think outside the box.”
According to him, the Federal Government is now considering a state police structure intended to enable swifter response to security issues.
Dr. Osagie cited Sections 32, 34, 35 and 39 of the 1999 Constitution in which the phrase ” Nigerian Police Force ” was copiusly used as the sole law enforcement organ of the country with the mandate to ensure law and order, adding that the contemplation of an additional layer of policing is therefore not out of place within the framework of the nation’s constitution.
He further disclosed that Section 153 and 197 of the Constitution is being amended to provide for a dual policing structure.
At the federal level, there will be a Federal Police Force headed by the Inspector General of Police to be appointed by the President on the recommendation of the National Police Council while the recruitment, promotion and discipline of other tanks of the Federal Police remains the function of the National Police Service Commission. At the state level, states will be empowered to create their own State Police Structure by laws made by the various State Houses of Assembly why the State Governor will have the power to appoint tye State Commissioner of Police upon the recommendation of the state police service commission and confirmation by the State House of Assembly.
He said the Federal Police will enforce federal laws and prosecute federal offences, while the State Police will perform similar functions at the state level.
However, Dr. Osagie stressed that structure and accountability are critical for state police to function optimally.
“There will be National Minimum Standard for the policing by a Law to be enacted by the National Assembly. He explained thqt the bill contain provisions which will make state police commissioners not to carry out certain instructions if those instructions are illegal or inconsistent with the National minimum standard of policing. He submitted that there must be lawful directives in line with the national minimum standard,” he said.
He added that there must be laid-down rules and regulations, and proper training for officers when the law comes into force, to ensure no officer takes the law into their own hands.
He concluded that putting all necessary measures in place is critical to ensure effective checks against abuse as the country continues to confront security challenges.
The Federal High Court in Abuja, on Wednesday, ordered that 48 properties linked to the former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, be taken over by the Federal Government.
Delivering the ruling, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik said the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had proven that the properties were likely bought with money from illegal activities.
The EFCC had filed the suit seeking to permanently take over 57 properties worth N212.8 billion alleged to be linked to Malami. Justice Abdulmalik said Malami failed to show that he acquired the properties through legal means.
Earlier, the judge dismissed several applications and motions filed to claim ownership of the properties by Malami, his family members, and some companies linked to the properties. She stated that the issue before the court was not “who owns the properties, but whether the money used to buy the properties was legitimately obtained.”
Justice Abdulmalik gave the order based on Section 17 of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act.
However, the judge also cancelled the earlier court order on nine other properties included in the EFCC’s application. She said the anti-graft agency failed to prove that the nine properties located in Kebbi and Kaduna states were bought with illegal money.
