As a cornerstone of its second phase of centenary celebrations, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Warri Branch, hosted a symbolic and impactful Moot and Mock Trial competition on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at the Federal High Court in Warri. The event, designed to honor the rich legal history of Warri and inspire the next generation of legal practitioners, brought together some of the brightest law students from across Delta State in a stunning display of legal prowess and professionalism.
Under the visionary leadership of its chairman, Othadua A. Okpakpor Esq., the NBA Warri Branch demonstrated its unwavering commitment to advancing legal education and investing in human capital development. The competition featured brilliant teams from Delta State University, Edwin Clark University, and Michael and Cecilia Ibru University.
The hallowed halls of the Federal High Court provided a fitting and solemn backdrop for the proceedings, giving the students an invaluable, real-world taste of legal practice. Before a distinguished panel of judges, the students showcased advocacy, analytical skills, and a command of courtroom decorum that exceeded all expectations.
After a series of keenly contested and intellectually rigorous court sessions, Michael and Cecilia Ibru University emerged as the winner, with Edwin Clark University securing the position of first runner-up, while Delta State University, Oleh Campus emerged as 2nd runner up. While all participating teams performed commendably and were awarded certificates of participation, the exceptional quality of the arguments and the high professional standards maintained throughout were a testament to the rigorous training provided by their respective faculties.
The judging panel, which lent immense prestige to the occasion, comprised eminent jurists; Hon Justice A O Akpovi, Hon Justice T Uloho, Hon Justice R D Harriman, Hon Justice V O Agboje, Hon Justice G I Umuko, and Prof David Efevweran Deputy DG of Nigerian Law School, Yenagoa Campus.The esteemed judges expressed their profound satisfaction with the students' performances, seeing in them a bright and hopeful future for the legal profession. They offered invaluable feedback, which the students will undoubtedly carry with them throughout their legal careers.
The event was also graced by the presence of several Senior Advocates of Nigeria, who were visibly impressed by the students' passion and professionalism. In a remarkable gesture of mentorship and support, the learned silks granted all student participants unrestricted access to their law offices for vacation internships, a testament to the high regard in which they held the students' abilities.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the NBA Warri Branch, Othadua A. Okpakpor Esq., lauded the participants for their outstanding performance and encouraged them to remain dedicated as they continue their journey to the Bar. He reiterated the branch's commitment to nurturing future legal minds.
The winning universities were awarded cash prizes in recognition of their stellar achievements. For the Centenary Celebration Committee, this event was more than a competition; it was a profound investment in the future of the legal community in Warri. Marking 100 years of legal practice in the region, nothing could have been more fitting.
The resounding success of this second phase of the centenary celebration is a significant achievement for the NBA Warri Branch. We extend our gratitude to all who contributed to this memorable event and look forward to more fruitful accomplishments in the years to come.
Maxwell Nosakhare Uwaifo, Esq. Secretary, Centenary Celebration Committee Nigerian Bar Association, Warri Branch
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