Society strengthens links with Nigerian market

The Law Society is helping solicitors enter the market for legal services in Nigeria by taking a trade mission to the country.

Following decades of military rule that ended eight years ago, Nigeria has reformed its justice system and is experiencing sustained economic growth with emerging opportunities in a number of key sectors including project finance, PPP, oil & gas and telecommunications.

As a result of this economic development there is a host of opportunities for the expansion of international legal services in West Africa. Led by President Andrew Holroyd, the trade mission from 24-28 March is an opportunity for English and Welsh solicitors to promote their firms directly to business partners and potential clients as well as building links with Nigerian firms and practitioners. It also aims to improve relations, understanding and mutual collaboration between the Nigerian and British legal professions. 18 law firms ranging from large City firms to medium-sized commercial practices and small niche practices are participating in the mission.

The visit will incorporate a programme of briefings, meetings and networking opportunities and will be supported by Law Society staff and the British High Commission in Nigeria. Andrew Holroyd, Law Society President, said, “This trade mission is another step towards developing further collaboration between the UK and Nigeria and maximising the potential of the recent economic progress. Law firms of all sizes will benefit from the networking opportunities specifically tailored to suit their interests.”

The mission will coincide with the third annual Nigerian Bar Association’s Section on Business Law Conference in Abuja bringing mission participants into contact with hundreds of lawyers from Nigeria and West Africa. In addition to chairing sessions at the conference, Law Society President, Andrew Holroyd will share a platform with former UN Secretary General, Kofi Annan in giving an opening address to the conference delegates.