Female Lawyers Urged to Embrace Collaboration and Networking for Professional Growth
The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Business, Trade, and Cooperatives (MBTC), Barrister (Mrs.) F. N. Edokpolor, has called on female lawyers in Edo State to prioritize collaboration and networking as tools to unlock their full potential.
Barr. Edokpolor made this statement during a courtesy visit by members of the Nigerian Bar Association Women Forum (NBA Women Forum) to her office.
Expressing her delight at the forum’s efforts, the Permanent Secretary, with over 24 years of post-call experience, reflected on her journey in the civil service.
“By the grace of God, I have reached the pinnacle of the civil service, she remarked. “I am passionate about the legal profession. I have actively contributed to the NBA, chairing several committees, including the Law Dinner and Law Week.”
Barr. Edokpolor assured the forum of her unwavering support and prayed for divine wisdom and grace for its leadership. “Please keep me informed of your programs and events. I am eager to participate and provide necessary support within my capacity,” she said.
Speaking during the visit, Barr. Edosa Great-Zion, the Benin Facilitator of the NBA Women Forum, emphasized the group’s mission to empower female lawyers across Edo State to attain the highest heights in the legal profession.
The State Lead, Barr. Bridget Osa Iguodeyala, explained that the forum was established in 2006 by former NBA President Olisa Agbakoba (SAN) to address the challenges faced by women in society and to ensure female lawyers achieve professional excellence.
Following initial challenges in its operation, the forum was re-inaugurated in 2019 under Paul Usoro (SAN) and now enjoys strong support from the current NBA National President, Mazi Afam Osigwe.
“Barr. Edokpolor exemplifies the hard work and dedication required to achieve success. Her achievements make her a worthy role model for female lawyers,” Barr. Iguodeyala noted.
She further highlighted the forum’s slogan, “Empowering Female Lawyers for Success,” which is encapsulated in the acronym ANIEE—Advocacy, Networking, Inclusivity, Excellence, and Empowerment. The forum’s cabinet includes facilitators from Benin, Ekpoma, Irrua, Auchi and Irrua
Barr. Iguodeyala clarified that the NBA Women Forum operates distinctly from other organizations like FIDA, focusing exclusively on empowering and mentoring female lawyers while protecting their workplace rights.
“Our goal is clear. We concentrate on supporting ourselves as female lawyers. We do not engage in cases like rape but focus on mentorship and empowerment within the legal profession,” she explained.
High Point of the Visit
The courtesy visit culminated in the decoration of Barr. (Mrs.) F. N. Edokpolor with the forum’s emblem, which included a pink sash, rose, and brooch, presented by the State Lead and facilitators.
Other notable members present at the event included Barr. Ulo Uzamere, Barr. Adeola Ekhaguere, and Barr. Lillian Eze.
