NBA kicks against Nigeria-UK trade deal that will allow UK lawyers to practise in Nigeria

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has swiftly responded to the recent trade agreement between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, which permits UK lawyers to practice within Nigeria.

In a strongly worded statement issued by NBA President, Mr. Yakubu Maikyau SAN, he criticized the Federal Government for finalizing the deal without prior consultation with the NBA.

Maikyau expressed his dismay, stating, “It is truly regrettable that this stark reminder of our colonial history is being celebrated without regard for its impact on the livelihoods of millions of Nigerians. What's even more concerning is the lack of consultation, particularly with the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), before making such a significant decision.”

He continued, “It's disheartening that while the UK government seeks to expand opportunities for its legal practitioners, the Nigerian government seems intent on undermining Nigerian lawyers and their dependents' means of sustenance. Proceeding with such a pact without engaging the NBA demonstrates a callous disregard for the legal profession in Nigeria, which is utterly unacceptable.”

Maikyau emphasized that the NBA will take all necessary steps to oppose the trade deal, stating, “To commence, I have convened a meeting of senior lawyers today to formulate an appropriate legal strategy. We are prepared to contest the legality of this agreement, even if it necessitates pursuing the matter to the Supreme Court. This stance is just the beginning; we will explore all avenues to assert our rejection of this deal. I urge all NBA members to stand firm in this forthcoming battle. Under my leadership, the NBA will staunchly defend our legal territory.”

On Tuesday, Feb. 13, the United Kingdom formalized a new agreement with Nigeria, granting British lawyers permission to practice law within the country.

According to an official statement from the UK's Department of Business and Trade, the British Business and Trade Secretary, Kemi Badenoch, and her Nigerian counterpart, Doris Uzoka Anitie, the Minister for Trade and Investment, inked a landmark trade partnership named the "Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP)" with Nigeria on February 13.

The announcement elaborated that the ETIP, the first of its kind signed by the UK with an African nation, aims to bolster the already robust trading relationship between the UK and Nigeria, which amounted to £7 billion in 2023.

Moreover, this agreement is poised to dismantle barriers in legal services and the film industry, permitting UK lawyers to practice international law in Nigeria, and fostering collaboration between the film and media sectors of both nations.