Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State (fourth from right) and other dignitaries during the NBA National conference
By Daniel Obla
The Road Trip
The Nigerian Bar Association Annual General Conference (NBA AGC) is one of the most anticipated gatherings for legal practitioners across the country. Beyond the intellectually stimulating plenary sessions and high-powered breakout discussions, it also provides an opportunity for lawyers to reconnect, unwind, and enjoy moments of camaraderie.
For many, the real highlight lies not only in the robust debates but in the laughter shared over drinks, the reunions with old colleagues, and the forging of new friendships.
This year, my journey to the AGC took the form of a road trip from Jos to Enugu in Nigeria’s Eastern region—a journey many consider risky due to insecurity, including kidnapping incidents and IPOB-related unrest. I began the trip with a taxi ride from Jos to Abuja, where I joined my fellow travellers—Luke Esq., Manny Esq., and Samson Esq.—and together, we set out on our adventure.
Abuja to Otukpo
Our route took us from Abuja through Keffi and Nasarawa LGA. By the time we reached the bridge bordering Agatu LGA of Benue State, we stopped to indulge in some roasted guinea fowl before pressing on to Otukpo, where we spent the night.
It is worth noting that the road we plied had been constructed between 2021 and 2022. Yet, within only three years, it had deteriorated into a nightmare for motorists—an unfortunate testament to the deep-rooted corruption plaguing Nigeria’s construction sector.
In Otukpo, we lodged at a hotel named Apglo. While the name was amusing, the town itself was a familiar delight—the red zinc roofs, the ochre sands, the rustic but vibrant charm of its people, and the simple, clean fashion of the youth.
The Final Leg to Enugu
On Sunday morning, fortified by a hearty breakfast of Okpa, we resumed the journey. From the red earth of Otukpo through Adoka and Orokam, we were treated to lush greenery, rainfall, and long rows of parked trucks along the roadside. Road dualization work was ongoing along the Akwanga-Enugu Federal Road. Of course, we couldn’t resist stopping briefly in Otukpa for a taste of fresh palm wine.
Our entry into Enugu was memorable. We mistakenly veered into an expressway expansion project that cut through a bustling market. True to Enugu’s entrepreneurial spirit, a young man promptly offered to guide us through the maze of traffic—for a fee. We later observed that this was an established practice, with several others doing the same for stranded drivers.
Enugu: The Host City
Arriving fully into the city, we were impressed by Enugu’s well-planned road network, modern properties, and orderly construction—a refreshing contrast to many other parts of the country. We checked into the Best Western Hotel, whose facilities were both modern and comfortable, before heading to the International Conference Centre at Opara Square for the opening ceremony.
Participants during the NBA National conference at the International Conference Centre (ICC), Enugu
The atmosphere at the ICC was electrifying. Although the main hall was packed to capacity, the NBA’s meticulous planning ensured overflow arrangements with adjoining tents. The quality of discourse was outstanding, with eminent speakers such as former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Julius Malema gracing the stage. The sessions were intellectually rich and thought-provoking, setting the tone for a successful conference.
Outside the conference, Enugu offered no shortage of leisure. From Toscana and Club Nox to the Mami Market and DEC Centre, every outing added colour to the experience. A special mention goes to Chief Henry Okeke Esq., who warmly hosted us in his hometown.
The Journey Back
Departing Enugu was bittersweet. We bade farewell to the “Coal City” with fond memories, making our first stop for Akara. True to tradition, we paused again in Otukpa for palm wine before reaching Otukpo, where we savoured the iconic Idoma delicacy, Okoho soup, paired with Oniebe—a special yam-based Amala.
At Makurdi, the contrast was stark. The township roads were in poor condition compared to Enugu’s well-paved network. We stayed the night at Grand Steevo Hotel, which offered clean, comfortable lodging and courteous service.
The following morning, our early departure was briefly complicated by Benue State’s monthly sanitation curfew (6:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m.). Thankfully, the fact that we were returning lawyers from the NBA AGC earned us passage through the checkpoints. We also noted that the iconic food basket monument at Wurukum had been removed to accommodate the ongoing dualization of the Akwanga–Enugu Road.
The ride to Abuja was smoother than expected. At Akwanga, we made our final indulgent stop at Asabe’s, famed for her roasted goat meat paired with palm wine.
Reflections
By the time we reached Abuja, we were exhausted yet exhilarated—grateful for safety, friendship, and the memorable experiences along the way. Special thanks go to Manny Esq., whose skilful and cautious driving carried us through the journey. We often joked that if he were not a lawyer, he would have thrived as a professional driver.
Now back in Jos, I feel renewed and motivated to achieve more than ever before. The NBA AGC 2025 was not just a professional gathering but also a journey of reflection, bonding, and rediscovery.
- Daniel Obla, Esq., Principal Partner, Obla Daniel & Co. (08036022427)
