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The African Bar Association (AfBA) has strengthened its long-standing ties with the Nigerian Armed Forces during a high-level meeting in Abuja.

The session, held at Defence Headquarters on 4 September 2025, focused on enhancing military participation in the Association’s forthcoming Annual Conference in Accra, Ghana.

The AfBA delegation was led by its President, High Chief Ibrahim Eddy-Mark, accompanied by senior officials including Moses Alfred Ebute, SAN; Hon. Mohammed Ndayako, SAN; Chinelo Audrey Ofoegbunam and Teyojesam Eko. Retired Major General Y.I. Shalangwa also joined the team.

The Defence Headquarters delegation was led by Air Vice Marshal S. Olatunde, Chief of Defence Policy and Plans, who represented the Chief of Defence Staff, General C.G. Musa. He was supported by Rear Admiral Haruna, Major General Wambai, Squadron Leader U.A. Muhammed, Captain A. Isa-Bello, Commander N.E. Okechukwu, and Major I.A. Olanrewaju.

In his address, AfBA President Ibrahim Eddy-Mark recalled the strong partnership between AfBA and the Nigerian Armed Forces since 2017, when both institutions collaborated during a Harare conference. He noted that Nigerian officers have always attended AfBA events in impressive numbers, often taking front-row seats during opening ceremonies.

He formally announced the 2025 AfBA Annual Conference scheduled for 19–23 October in Accra, Ghana, and expressed concern over the low registration of Nigerian officers compared to previous years. The AfBA President appealed for sponsorship of at least 30 officers drawn from the Army, Navy, and Air Force. He also requested funding support for the dedicated military session, emphasizing that Nigeria’s strong presence boosts both national pride and international recognition.

Eddy-Mark reminded the delegation that Defence Headquarters had previously partnered with AfBA to host a military conference in Abuja. He suggested renewed collaboration for a follow-up edition. He further underscored AfBA’s commitment to conflict resolution, human rights advocacy, and promoting professional engagement with African militaries.

Responding, Major General Wambai acknowledged the request but recalled that past sponsorships had been limited. Squadron Leader U.A. Muhammed added that sponsored participants need not all be lawyers, citing past involvement of senior non-lawyer officers.

Air Vice Marshal Olatunde appreciated the visit and stressed that the Nigerian Armed Forces value AfBA’s partnership but also expect more support, especially in relation to international legal scrutiny such as cases before the International Criminal Court. He urged AfBA to share information and intelligence when available.

He noted that Nigeria’s ongoing war situation has strained resources, restricting the number of officers who can be sponsored. However, he assured that a balanced mix of Army, Navy, and Air Force officers would be represented at the Accra conference. Olatunde also commended AfBA for giving adequate notice since July and pledged Defence Headquarters’ commitment to participate within available means.

The meeting ended with mutual appreciation, with both AfBA and the Nigerian Armed Forces reaffirming their partnership and agreeing to sustain collaboration at the 2025 AfBA Annual Conference.

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