A source within the Advocacy for Bar Licence Freedom (ABLIF) has told TheNigeriaLawyer that following a recent engagement with the leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), key concessions were reached on the controversial Mandatory Continuing Professional Development (MCPD) policy.
According to the source, the meeting took place on Friday, August 1, 2025, at the NBA National Secretariat in Abuja, where ABLIF representatives met with NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, and members of his executive team to discuss concerns around the enforcement of the Continuing Legal Education (CLE) requirements.
The source confirmed that ABLIF reiterated its support for CLE in principle, but strongly opposed the denial or restriction of any lawyer’s right to practice based on CPD point acquisition, particularly when such lawyers had fulfilled their statutory Bar Practicing Fee (BPF) obligations.
“The NBA President and his team made it clear they are committed to the full implementation of the MCPD Rules,” the source said.
However, following what the source described as “constructive advocacy,” the NBA reportedly agreed to several concessions:
Reduction of CLE Course Fees: The association has reviewed and reduced the cost of CLE courses.
Introduction of Free CLE Trainings: In response to ABLIF’s demand, the NBA has now included more free CLE sessions in its calendar.
Exemption Provisions: Lawyers facing genuine challenges in meeting CLE requirements can now apply for exemptions under existing MCPD provisions.
Improved Virtual Training Access: The NBA has transitioned from Zoom (which had a 1,000-participant cap) to the Zoho platform, accommodating up to 5,000 participants. “The NBA now spends ₦5 million annually to ensure wider access,” the source revealed.
Further Deliberations Pending: The source added that the NBA has assured it will continue to engage with ABLIF to address other outstanding issues.
The source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said ABLIF remains committed to protecting the professional rights of Nigerian lawyers through continuous dialogue and advocacy.
TheNigeriaLawyer has reached out to the NBA for official confirmation.
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