Lawyers must follow 2023 legal remuneration order, NBA insists
The Nigerian Bar Association has affirmed that the Legal Practitioners’ Remuneration Order 2023 is mandatory for legal practice in Nigeria.
The National Executive Council (NEC) of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has officially endorsed the Remuneration Committee's report, confirming that compliance with the Legal Practitioners’ Remuneration Order 2023 is compulsory for all legal professionals in Nigeria. Released through the NBA's official X account, this announcement followed a meeting held in Maiduguri, Borno State, on February 5, 2026. The NEC emphasized that the remuneration order is a non-negotiable regulatory framework that aims to standardize legal remuneration across the country.
The report presented by the Remuneration Committee, chaired by Chief Emeka Obegolu, SAN, encompassed various strategic initiatives, including national advocacy, enforcement actions, and strict disciplinary measures to enhance ethical practices within the legal profession. Notably, the NEC praised the committee for its commitment to advocating for fair remuneration and ensuring adherence among legal practitioners. This reflects the ongoing efforts by the NBA to create a systematic approach to tackling financial inequalities faced by lawyers in Nigeria.
The adoption of the report and the insistence on the mandatory nature of the remuneration order are crucial in fostering a more equitable legal system in Nigeria. By standardizing remuneration policies, the NBA aims to alleviate the disparities in earnings among legal professionals, thereby promoting increased professionalism and integrity in the practice of law. This development signifies a crucial step towards strengthening the legal framework and professional standards within the Nigerian legal landscape, reinforcing the necessity for ethical compliance among its members.