In a significant milestone for the legal profession in Rivers State, the Ahoada Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) hosted the groundbreaking and foundation laying ceremony for the commencement of its new Branch Secretariat building on January 17, 2025. The event, held at the project site off Abua Road, attracted an impressive gathering of dignitaries from the judiciary, government, and local government areas.

The groundbreaking ceremony was graced by prominent figures from the Rivers State judiciary and government. Among those present were:

Hon. Justice Simeon Chibuzor Amadi, Chief Judge of Rivers State, represented by Hon. Justice T.S. Oji.

Hon. Justice Ihemnacho Obuzor, President, Customary Court of Appeal, represented by Hon. Justice Legor Senegho.

Other eminent jurists, including Hon. Justice Uche K. Chuku, Hon. Justice Lemia Ngbor-Abina, Hon. Justice Sylvester S. Popnen, Ph.D., Hon. Justice Rita Ogugua, and Hon. Justice Victor Chinedum Ugorji.

Magistrates and other judicial officers were also in attendance, alongside key political figures, including:

Sir Dr. Similayi Fubara, GSSRS, Executive Governor of Rivers State, represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Edison Ehie, Ph.D., DSSRS.

Hon. Chibudom Ezu, Chairman, Ahoada East Local Government Area.

Hon. Amb. Israel Abosi, Chairman, Ikwerre Local Government Area.

Hon. Iyekor Ikporo, Chairman, Ahoada West Local Government Area.

Numerous other dignitaries and members of the legal profession were present to witness this landmark event.

Delivering a goodwill message, Hon. Justice T.S. Oji, who attended in her personal capacity as a former judge of the Ahoada High Court Division, lauded the efforts of the NBA Ahoada Branch Chairman and its members for achieving this milestone. She urged the branch members to continue their unwavering support to ensure the successful completion of the project.

Hon. Edison Ehie, Chief of Staff to the Government House, also expressed his delight at the branch’s determination to realize the dream of constructing a Secretariat. He commended the resilience of the Ahoada Bar and assured the branch of his continued support toward the completion of the building.

The highlight of the event was the groundbreaking and foundation laying ceremony, which was performed by Hon. Justice T.S. Oji. This symbolic act marked the official commencement of construction and set the stage for the realization of a long-anticipated project.

The groundbreaking ceremony was hailed as a resounding success, reflecting the dedication and unity of the Ahoada Bar. With support from dignitaries and members of the branch, the NBA Ahoada Branch looks forward to the speedy completion and commissioning of its Secretariat in the near future.

This achievement marks the branch’s commitment to providing a functional and modern workspace for its members, fostering professional growth, and enhancing the delivery of legal services in the region. The event was not just a celebration of progress but also a testament to the power of collaboration and resilience in achieving common goals.

As the project progresses, the Ahoada Branch is poised to set a new standard for excellence in the Nigerian Bar Association. The completion of the Secretariat will undoubtedly stand as a legacy for future generations of legal practitioners in the area.

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