By Eze Princewill
The President, Nigereria Bar Association (NBA), Mazi Afam Osigwe, has emphasized that a sustainable environment and protection should be a collective concern for all.
Osigwe dropped the emphasis when the Association of Environmental Lawyers of Nigeria (AELAN) led by its President, Prof Samuel Chisa Dike paid a courtesy call on him at his office in Abuja recently.
The Senior Advocate of Nigeria said lawyers must advocate for policies and legal frameworks that prioritize environmental protection.
The crux of the visit as revealed by the NBA President, was the crucial role lawyers play in environmental sustainability and protection.
According to him, lawyers must ensure that the people get the best of environmental information that will keep them up to date with regard to environmental issues.
Meanwhile, Dike also reaffirmed the association’s commitment to environmental advocacy and sought partnership with the NBA to advance their cause.
The association further proposed serving as a knowledge partner, providing training for lawyers on environmental issues.
They also requested a dedicated session at the upcoming NBA Annual General Conference proposed to hold in Port Harcourt in order to drive conversations around environmental law and sustainability.
Highlight of the visit was the conferment of the Fellow, Green Advocate of Nigeria title on the NBA President, a recognition he deeply appreciated.
“I reaffirmed the NBA’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote a healthier and more sustainable environment for all. Together, we’ll continue using the law as a tool for environmental justice”, he said.
It was further learnt that Prof Dike, a lecturer with the Rivers State University has been in the forefront of the push for Green Environment and Environmental protection rights
