FIC Report (Bayelsa State) – Yenagoa — It was a moment of deep reflection at the 2026 Law Week of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Yenagoa Branch, themed “Securing the Future,” held at the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) Conference Hall in Yenagoa.
The summit brought together legal practitioners, policymakers, and thought leaders for robust and thought-provoking discussions centered on the erosion of societal values and the declining national consciousness towards safeguarding Nigeria’s future.
Participants critically examined the nation’s trajectory over the years, highlighting key decisions and missed opportunities that have contributed to present challenges. There was a strong consensus on the urgent need to restore the core values that once defined Nigerian society.
The event also featured the presence of a former Nigerian President and the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), who contributed valuable insights and perspectives to the discourse.
A major highlight of the summit was the emphasis on national asset protection as a collective responsibility. Stakeholders, including representatives of security agencies, regulatory institutions, and development bodies, stressed the importance of collaborative efforts in protecting national resources and ensuring a more secure and sustainable future.
Speaking as one of the panelists, I noted that any meaningful conversation about securing the future must be rooted in a clear understanding of the past. According to me, a critical evaluation of historical mistakes and missed opportunities is essential for shaping better outcomes.
The summit also attracted distinguished personalities, including a renowned Kenyan lawyer and activist who delivered the keynote address, further enriching the discussions with a global perspective.
In my contribution, I emphasized the need for strategic investment in quality education and deliberate value reorientation among young Nigerians. Education, I noted, remains a powerful tool for character development, responsible citizenship, and leadership preparation.
I further observed that the growing influence of foreign cultures has contributed to the erosion of some of Nigeria’s cherished values. This, I stressed, underscores the need for intentional efforts to promote moral instruction and value-based learning as part of the nation’s educational framework.
The Law Week summit ultimately served as a timely reminder that securing Nigeria’s future requires collective responsibility, visionary leadership, strong institutions, and a renewed commitment to shared values.
Dr. Samuel Ogbuku is the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).
Ighovojah Gloria Afure
Principal Information Officer
FIC Yenagoa, Bayelsa
5th June 2026
