On 16th December 2024, the Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association – Young Lawyers Forum (NBA-YLF) Governing Council, Timothy Clement, Esq., had the honour of being invited by the Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker of the House of Representatives, to participate in a Youth Town Hall Meeting on the 2025 National Budget, held at the National Assembly, Abuja.
The engagement brought together key youth leaders and representatives from across Nigeria, including Precious Umoroye Abi, Esq. (Publicity Secretary, African Bar Association), Etaba Agbor, Esq. (NBA-YLF National Secretary), Mrs. Ramlat Arfah Ridwan (Treasurer, Alumni Network of the Legislative Mentorship Initiative), as well as representatives from the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Nigerian Youth Parliament, National Association of Nigerian Students, and Yiaga Africa. The Town Hall served as a platform for inclusive dialogue and collaboration between policymakers and youth stakeholders.
In his address, the Speaker emphasized the commitment of the House of Representatives to promote active youth participation in the legislative process, particularly in the passage of the 2025 Appropriation Bill. He highlighted the intention to ensure that the interests, priorities, and developmental initiatives of young Nigerians are reflected in the national budget, thereby strengthening inclusion and national development.
During the session, the NBA-YLF Chairman presented key aspects of the Forum’s agenda, particularly its pro bono initiatives, access to justice efforts, and capacity-building programs. He also highlighted areas of potential collaboration between the NBA-YLF and the National Assembly that would directly benefit young lawyers across the country. In response, the Speaker expressed his appreciation for the Forum’s initiatives and pledged his support for the continued growth and impact of the NBA-YLF.
The Town Hall underscored the importance of engaging young professionals in governance and policymaking processes, reinforcing the role of the NBA-YLF as a critical voice in advancing youth participation, justice, and national development.
