The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ilorin Branch, has appealed to the Kwara State Government and relevant judicial authorities to urgently facilitate the posting of a judge of the National Industrial Court (NIC) to Ilorin to enhance access to justice for workers and litigants in the state.
The appeal was made by the Chairman of the Association, Barrister SMH Kosemani, while delivering his welcome address at the 2025 Annual Dinner and Award Night of the Association held in honour of Senator Saliu Mustapha, the Lawmaker representing Kwara Central Senatorial District.
Barrister Kosemani lamented that industrial and labour-related cases arising from Kwara State are currently handled in Akure or Ibadan, a situation he said imposes avoidable hardship on litigants and legal practitioners.
He noted that the cost, security concerns, and stress associated with frequent interstate travel have denied many workers effective access to justice.
According to him, the posting of a National Industrial Court judge to Ilorin would significantly reduce the challenges, promote the speedy dispensation of justice, and strengthen confidence in the judicial system in the state.
The NBA chairman also reaffirmed the commitment of the Ilorin Branch to upholding the rule of law, defending constitutionalism, and promoting access to justice through legal aid, pro bono services, public interest advocacy, and continuous legal education.
The Chairman disclosed that the decision to honour Senator Saliu Mustapha was deliberate and based on his sustained goodwill and unwavering support for the Branch.
Barrister Kosemani described Senator Mustapha as a distinguished son of Kwara State, a patriot, philanthropist, and a steadfast friend of the Ilorin Bar.
He noted that the honour was unanimously approved by members of the Branch at its November 2025 Monthly General Meeting.
The NBA Chairman stressed that the recognition was conferred without any financial consideration, adding that it was a voluntary expression of gratitude by the Association for the Senator’s consistent support and genuine interest in the legal profession and the welfare of its practitioners in Kwara State.
Barrister Kosemani congratulated all the awardees at the event and expressed appreciation to members of the Planning and Organising Committee led by Professor Azeezat Amoloye-Adebayo, with Dr. Mahmud Abdulraheem as alternate Chairman and Yemi Shittu as Secretary, as well as members of the Executive Committee and the entire NBA Ilorin Branch.