By Joshua Ugbong
In a significant show of unity and commitment to the advancement of the legal profession in Northern Cross River, members of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ogoja Branch, paid a courtesy visit to the esteemed elder statesman and legal luminary, Kanu Godwin Agabi, SAN, at his residence in Abuja on the 30th of March, 2026.
The delegation, led by the Branch Chairman, Matthias U. Adeshi, Esq., was warmly received by the learned Silk, who graciously hosted the members and offered them refreshments in an atmosphere marked by camaraderie and mutual respect. The visit was principally aimed at soliciting his support towards the completion of the NBA Ogoja Branch Bar Centre project, a legacy initiative poised to enhance professional development and welfare within the Branch.
In his address, the Chairman eloquently articulated the vision, progress, and pressing needs of the project, emphasizing its importance as a unifying structure for legal practitioners in the region. He appealed for the continued support of distinguished sons of the soil, particularly revered figures such as Chief Agabi, whose contributions to the legal profession remain indelible.
In his response, the learned Silk commended the initiative and expressed his satisfaction with the efforts of the Branch. Demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the growth of the Bar, he made a generous financial pledge of Ten Million Naira (₦10,000,000.00), which he assured would be redeemed on or before the 30th day of April, 2026. He further pledged his continuous financial support towards the successful completion of the Bar Centre project.
Chief Agabi, SAN, while reflecting on his ties to the region, noted that the poor state of road infrastructure, coupled with the realities of age, has significantly limited his ability to make frequent visits home and engage physically with members of the Branch. He also shared insights into his vision behind the establishment of the Trinity House in Mabushi, Abuja—conceived as a support structure to provide free office accommodation for lawyers from Cross River State, particularly those from Northern Cross River. He expressed disappointment that this noble gesture was not fully appreciated at inception, leading to its eventual occupation by lawyers from other parts of the country.
In his characteristic mentorship style, the learned Silk urged members of the Branch to cultivate a robust culture of continuous study and intellectual development, describing it as the bedrock of professional excellence and enduring success at the Bar.
Also present at the meeting was E. M. E. Enamhe, Esq. (Bencher), who made a brief but impactful comment during the session. Papa D. C. Enamhe, Esq. (Ph.D), a distinguished member of the Branch, delivered the vote of thanks. Other members in attendance included G. I. Ugan, Esq. (Chairman, Bar Centre Project), Fidel Bisong, Esq. (Member), John Gaadi, Esq. (Branch Treasurer/Chairman, Young Lawyers Forum, Ogoja Branch), and Joshua A. Ugbong, Esq., AICMC (Branch Publicity Secretary).
The visit concluded on a note of gratitude and inspiration, as Chief Agabi wished the delegation a successful completion of their project and a safe journey back to Ogoja.
Joshua A. Ugbong, Esq., AICMC is the
Publicity Secretary
NBA Ogoja Branch
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