Legal Luminaries Converge As Asagba Azinge Honoured At NIALS Event
Royal Presence Highlights NIALS Founders’ Day
THE Asagba of Asaba, Epiphany Azinge, on Tuesday attended the 2026 Founders’ Day Lecture of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS), held at the University of Lagos office of the institute.
Azinge, a former Director-General of the institute, was received by the current Director-General, Abdulqadir Ibrahim Abikan, in what observers described as a symbolic reunion that underscored continuity in leadership and institutional legacy.
Staff of the institute reportedly welcomed the monarch warmly, recalling his tenure as one marked by reform, intellectual rigour, and institutional resilience.
Tributes to Past Leadership and Institutional Legacy
In his welcome address, Prof. Abikan expressed appreciation for Azinge’s presence, highlighting his contributions to the growth and stability of the institute during his time as Director-General.
The event chairman, Joash Ojo Amupitan, also paid tribute to Azinge, reflecting on his leadership and recalling his own experience serving on the institute’s board during that period.
Speakers at the event emphasised the importance of institutional memory and continuity, noting that celebrating founding figures helps preserve the intellectual and administrative traditions that sustain organisations like NIALS.
Reflections on Challenges and Institutional Survival
In his remarks, Azinge reflected on key challenges faced during his tenure, including navigating the implications of the Oronsaye Panel reforms, which sought to rationalise federal agencies.
He noted that the institute had to adapt strategically to remain relevant and operational, describing the period as one that tested its resilience and commitment to its mandate.
Azinge also commended the current leadership for sustaining the tradition of commemorating the institute’s founders, describing it as essential in recognising the sacrifices and vision that shaped NIALS.
Lecture Focuses on Governance in Digital Era
The highlight of the event was the Founders’ Day Lecture titled “Civil Participation, Rule of Law and Accountable Governance in a Digital Era,” delivered by Theodore Bala Maiyaki.
The lecture explored the evolving relationship between governance, citizen engagement, and digital transformation, with emphasis on accountability and the rule of law in contemporary society.
Celebrating Heritage and Intellectual Tradition
The event concluded with renewed calls for strengthening legal research and policy engagement in Nigeria, as well as preserving the values upon which NIALS was founded.
Azinge also recalled his personal connection to the institute’s legacy, including his role in composing the NIALS anthem in 2011, inspired by the ideals of its founding fathers.
The gathering reaffirmed the institute’s role as a leading centre for legal scholarship and policy discourse in Nigeria.
