The Commonwealth Lawyers Association (CLA) is excited to be hosting its first regional conference in Abuja. This follows a decision taken by the Council in 2008 to organise a dedicated regional event every two years. It is the first time that the CLA will be holding an event in Nigeria since the last Commonwealth Law Conference which was held in 1981. The conference will provide an important opportunity for legal practitioners in West Africa to come together and develop their legal knowledge, skill and wider contacts.

The theme of the regional conference is ‘The 21st Century Lawyer: Present Challenges & Future Skills’ and the programme streams will focus on ‘Human Rights & the Rule of Law’ and ‘Corporate & Commercial Law’ with an emphasis on issues of importance within Nigeria and the wider West Africa region. The conference will focus on the provision of practical training and skills development. It will also offer high-profile keynote addresses, an exhibition and a number of satellite meetings hosted by other Commonwealth and legal associations which will take place in the wings of the conference.

A unique programme of social and networking events has been designed to ensure that all those who attend the conference will have an opportunity to meet colleagues from different jurisdictions, exchange experiences and build friendships that will continue long after the closing ceremony.

I welcome all members of the CLA, other lawyers and their families and guests to the inaugural CLA Regional Law Conference, an event which I am sure will be a truly memorable and enriching experience for all who attend and will undoubtedly set a high precedent for future regional events.

I look forward to meeting as many of you as I can throughout the Conference.

Mohamed Husain
President
Commonwealth Lawyers’ Association