The Honourable Minister of State for Works, Rt. Hon. Bello Muhammad Goronyo, Esq., on Sunday, April 14, 2026, attended the 2026 Caliphate Bar Week of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Sokoto State Branch.
The event, themed “A Secure Nation, A Secure Future,” brought together distinguished legal practitioners, jurists, policymakers, and stakeholders in the justice sector to deliberate on the evolving role of the legal profession in advancing national security, good governance, and sustainable development in Nigeria.
The week-long programme, held in Sokoto, was organised under the leadership of Barr. Rashidat Mohammed, Esq., Chairperson of the NBA Sokoto Branch, and featured a series of intellectual engagements, policy dialogues, and networking sessions aimed at strengthening the administration of justice and promoting professional excellence within the legal community.
In his remarks, the Honourable Minister expressed delight at the increasing relevance and global recognition of the legal profession, noting that the role of legal practitioners has become even more critical in addressing emerging societal challenges. He urged members of the Bar to remain steadfast in upholding the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and ethical conduct in the discharge of their duties.
Rt. Hon. Goronyo emphasized that the legal profession remains a fundamental pillar in safeguarding democracy, ensuring justice, and promoting peace and stability within society. He further stressed that a strong, independent, and ethical legal system is indispensable to the attainment of national development goals and the protection of citizens’ rights.
The Minister also highlighted the importance of synergy between legal institutions and government agencies in driving reforms that will enhance access to justice and strengthen public confidence in the rule of law. He reaffirmed the commitment of the Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to institutional strengthening and the advancement of policies that promote transparency, accountability, and national cohesion.
As a member of both the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the International Bar Association (IBA), the Minister noted that he was honoured to participate in the event alongside eminent personalities. These included the Executive Governor of Sokoto State, His Excellency Dr.
Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto, FCNA; the Honourable Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi, SAN; the Chief Judge of Sokoto State, Hon. Justice Muhammad Sa’idu Sifawa; the Sokoto State Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Nasiru Binji; and the Chairperson of the NBA Sokoto Branch, Barr. Rashidat Mohammed, Esq.
Rt. Hon. Goronyo commended the Governor of Sokoto State, Dr. Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto, for his sustained support and strategic investments in strengthening the justice sector in the state.
He noted that such efforts are instrumental in deepening the rule of law, enhancing judicial efficiency, and fostering transparency and accountability in governance.
The Honourable Minister concluded by encouraging continuous engagement among stakeholders in the legal profession to ensure that the justice system remains responsive, inclusive, and aligned with global best practices.