As part of its long-standing commitment to thought leadership and professional development within Nigeria’s legal community, SPA Ajibade & Co. proudly announces the Essay Competition ahead of the 18th Annual Business Luncheon themed:
“Rebuilding Public Trust in the Nigerian Justice System: Responsibilities of the Bar, the Bench, and the Society.”
This year’s competition provides a unique platform for young lawyers to contribute fresh perspectives on one of the most pressing challenges facing Nigeria’s legal system — restoring public confidence in justice.
Eligibility
The competition is open to lawyers with 1–7 years post-call experience who are passionate about justice reform and eager to influence the national conversation through ideas and scholarship.
Entry Requirements
Participants must adhere to the following guidelines:
Maximum of 2,000 words.
Must comply with the OSCOLA referencing style.
Entries should be typed in Arial font, size 11, with 1.5 line spacing.
Submissions must be in Word format (.doc/.docx).
Entries must be sent via email to luncheon@spaajibade.com.
Deadline for submission: 11:59 PM (WAT), November 30, 2025.
Prizes
SPA Ajibade & Co. continues its tradition of rewarding excellence with opportunities that empower young practitioners to grow professionally and expand their networks.
1st Prize:
Sponsorship of the application/examination fees for one of the following professional courses:
Data Protection Officer Certification, or
ICSAN Associate Membership.
1st Runner-Up:
Sponsorship of the application fees for CIArb Associate Membership, or
One-year subscription for LawPavilion Primsol Advocate & Commercial Practitioners’ Package.
2nd Runner-Up:
One-year subscription for LawPavilion Primsol Advocates’ Package.
Announcement of Winners
Winners will be formally announced during the 18th SPA Ajibade & Co. Annual Business Luncheon, scheduled for Thursday, December 11, 2025, by 11:00 AM at Metropolitan Club Victoria Island, Lagos State.
Registration: luncheon.spaajibade.com
Participants are strongly encouraged to register and attend this landmark event, which convenes leaders of the Bar and Bench to discuss the collective responsibilities required to restore trust in Nigeria’s justice system.
The SPA Ajibade & Co. Essay Competition has, over the years, served as a launchpad for young legal professionals to express innovative ideas, challenge the status quo, and shape conversations around justice sector reform.
This edition invites participants to examine practical ways the Bar, Bench, and the society can collaborate to rebuild integrity and confidence in the Nigerian justice system, the cornerstone of democracy and good governance.
Deadline: November 30, 2025
Submit entries to: luncheon@spaajibade.com
More information: www.luncheon.spaajibade.com
