The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Jos Branch has awarded an Honorary Award to Senator Simon Bako Lalong, representing Plateau South Senatorial District and former Governor of Plateau State, for his significant contributions and unwavering support toward the success of the branch, the growth of the legal profession, and the development of its members.
The Executive Committee, represented by Chairman Barr. Leah Hassan Dagung, Secretary Barr. Mafeng Pam, immediate past Chairman Barr. Izam Aware, and other members, visited Lalong’s residence in Abuja to present the award and convey the Association’s message.
Barr. Dagung noted that the branch has consistently recognized Lalong’s tremendous support over the years, particularly during his tenure as Governor of Plateau State, where he maintained an open-door policy and demonstrated immense generosity.
She highlighted that Lalong provided the branch with a brand-new bus and consistently sponsored its members to international bar conferences, NBA national conferences, and various training programs both within and outside the country.
The NBA Chairman expressed gratitude to Senator Lalong for facilitating the branch’s move to a permanent office space before he left office as Governor, ensuring a stable environment for their operations.
Immediate past Chairman Barr. Izam Aware remarked that Lalong revolutionized the Nigerian judiciary in Plateau State by constructing a modern complex that is now one of the best in the country and serves as a point of reference.
He noted that Lalong was one of the first governors in Nigeria to facilitate the autonomy of the judiciary and appointed the highest number of judges in the state’s history. He also helped the Jos Branch host the NBA National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, which brought it into the national spotlight.
The committee acknowledged Lalong’s previous role as Assistant Secretary of the branch and his support for establishing the Bukuru and Shendam branches.
Former NBA National Treasurer Barr. Ladidi Anzeh-Bishop also expressed gratitude to Senator Lalong for his support during her election as a national officer.
In response, Senator Lalong thanked the NBA for their support and collaboration over the years, which enabled him to achieve a great deal in various offices he held.
He reiterated his commitment to enhancing the growth of the legal profession, which motivated him to construct the High Court Headquarters as a reference point.
Lalong mentioned that the establishment of the multi-door courthouse was intended to facilitate ease of doing business, and he upgraded the Plateau Ministry of Lands and Survey through the Plateau Land Administration and Geographic Information System (PLAGIS) for effective land administration.
In addition to appointing the highest number of judges in Plateau State’s history, Lalong announced the establishment of a Faculty of Law at Plateau State University, Bokkos, and the planned North Central Campus of the Nigerian Law School in Plateau State to promote the profession and create opportunities for the younger generation.
He encouraged the Bar to continue advocating for truthfulness in government, as they did during his tenure, which helped him deliver democratic dividends to the state.
Senator Lalong urged the NBA not to remain silent in cases of constitutional violations, breaches of the rule of law, or threats to freedom of expression by the government, particularly under the watch of its members, stating that such silence could undermine the profession and democracy itself.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Special Adviser (Media) to Senator Simon Bako Lalong, Plateau South Senatorial District
2nd October 2024
