The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has celebrated 43 outstanding law graduates who achieved First Class Honours at the 2024 Nigerian Law School (NLS) Bar Examinations. Read the full story, ceremony highlights, speeches, and what this achievement means for legal education in Nigeria.
Introduction
The University of Lagos (UNILAG), one of Nigeria’s most prestigious institutions, has once again proven its dominance in legal education as 43 of its law graduates achieved First Class Honours at the 2024 Nigerian Law School Bar Examinations.
This exceptional academic performance places UNILAG’s Faculty of Law at the forefront of legal excellence in Nigeria and further cements its position as a leading training ground for the next generation of legal minds.
The Faculty of Law held a special honour and recognition ceremony to celebrate these brilliant graduates, commending their hard work, resilience, and dedication that led to this historic academic feat.
UNILAG’s Outstanding Performance at the 2024 Bar Exams
The Nigerian Law School Bar Examinations represent the final qualifying stage for every law graduate seeking admission to the Nigerian Bar. It is one of the most competitive professional examinations in the country, demanding not only academic brilliance but also discipline and perseverance.
That 43 graduates from UNILAG attained First Class Honours in the 2024 session is a record-breaking achievement, setting UNILAG apart as one of the highest contributors to Nigeria’s First Class lawyers this year.
This success also reflects the university’s long-standing commitment to providing quality legal education and mentorship that prepares students for the demands of both local and international legal practice.
Celebration and Honour Ceremony at UNILAG
The recognition ceremony took place at the Faculty of Law Boardroom, University of Lagos, where the institution’s leadership, faculty members, alumni, and dignitaries gathered to honour the 43 graduates who excelled at the Nigerian Law School.
Distinguished Guests and Keynote Remarks
The ceremony featured eminent personalities including:
- Prof. Bola Oboh, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics and Research), representing the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola (OON, FAS)
- Prof. Abiola Sanni, SAN, Dean of the Faculty of Law
- Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, Special Adviser to the President on Ease of Doing Business
- Prof. Oyelowo Oyewo, SAN, former Attorney-General of Oyo State
- Engr. Ife Oyedele, FNSE, President of the UNILAG Alumni Association
In her address, Prof. Bola Oboh commended the graduates for upholding the university’s legacy of excellence and reminded them that integrity, professionalism, and ethical conduct must guide their legal careers.
Prof. Abiola Sanni, SAN, described the achievement as “a reflection of UNILAG’s investment in quality teaching, mentorship, and the pursuit of academic excellence.”
Symbolic Awards and Recognition
Each of the 43 graduates received a medal of honour presented by the university management and distinguished guests as a mark of recognition for their exceptional academic performance at the 2024 Nigerian Law School Bar Exams.
The joyful atmosphere reflected the pride and excitement shared by faculty, students, and parents. The event also showcased UNILAG’s strong alumni culture and continuous effort to recognize and reward excellence.
UNILAG Alumni Association’s Role and New Initiatives
The UNILAG Alumni Association used the event to unveil new projects aimed at improving the welfare and global engagement of graduates.
1. UNILAG Alumni Mobile App
A digital platform that will enable alumni to connect globally, mentor students, celebrate achievements, and collaborate on initiatives that promote the university’s mission.
2. Construction of 1,800-Bed Hostel Facility
The alumni body announced plans to construct a modern 1,800-bed hostel on campus to ease accommodation challenges faced by students. This project reinforces the association’s commitment to improving student life and academic comfort at UNILAG.
Engr. Ife Oyedele encouraged the First Class graduates to stay connected to their alma mater, join alumni programs, and contribute positively to the Nigerian legal space and society at large.
UNILAG–University of Dundee Partnership
During the ceremony, UNILAG announced a strategic academic partnership with the University of Dundee in the United Kingdom. This collaboration is expected to:
- Promote international exchange programs
- Enhance joint legal research
- Develop global learning experiences for UNILAG law students
- Strengthen cross-border professional training opportunities
This partnership marks another step in UNILAG’s vision of transforming its Faculty of Law into a global hub for legal scholarship and innovation.
Significance of This Achievement
For the Students
The 43 graduates have set a new benchmark for excellence. Their dedication, focus, and persistence prove that hard work truly pays off, inspiring other law students to aim for excellence in their studies and professional training.
For the University
This outstanding result strengthens UNILAG’s reputation as a centre of academic excellence and a leading institution in Nigeria’s legal education. It validates the university’s strong curriculum, qualified lecturers, and well-structured mentorship system.
For the Nigerian Legal System
Producing competent and ethically sound lawyers contributes directly to strengthening Nigeria’s judicial system, legal ethics, and rule of law. With First Class lawyers emerging from reputable universities like UNILAG, the future of Nigeria’s legal profession looks promising.
Lessons for Aspiring Law Students
- Consistency is Key: Excellence doesn’t come overnight; it requires discipline and daily effort.
- Seek Mentorship: Learning from experienced lecturers and alumni helps students understand practical aspects of law.
- Focus on Ethics and Integrity: The best lawyers combine intellectual strength with moral uprightness.
- Take Advantage of Resources: Engage in moot court sessions, workshops, and study groups.
- Set Clear Goals: Dream beyond graduation — aim for distinction at the Bar and in professional life.
Impact on Legal Education in Nigeria
UNILAG’s success story at the 2024 Nigerian Law School Bar Exams sends a strong message to other law faculties in Nigeria. It emphasizes the importance of:
- Investing in qualified lecturers and teaching resources
- Building strong student support systems
- Encouraging research, innovation, and global exposure
- Promoting integrity and discipline in legal training
The ripple effect of this milestone will likely inspire healthy competition and academic improvement across other law faculties nationwide.
Conclusion
The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has once again proven that excellence is not a coincidence but a culture. Honouring 43 graduates who attained First Class Honours at the 2024 Nigerian Law School Bar Examinations is a landmark achievement that will echo across the Nigerian legal landscape for years to come.
The recognition of these outstanding graduates not only celebrates their success but also reaffirms UNILAG’s unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of ethical, competent, and globally competitive legal practitioners.
As UNILAG continues to blaze the trail in legal education, this achievement remains a beacon of hope for every student aspiring to reach the pinnacle of academic and professional excellence.
Call to Action
If you are a current or prospective law student in Nigeria, let UNILAG’s 2024 Bar Exam success inspire you to aim higher. Follow academic updates and admission news on myschool.ng and stay connected with the UNILAG Alumni Network for mentorship, scholarship opportunities, and legal education insights.
