In the fast-paced world of Nigerian law, where deadlines and fierce advocacy often dominate, we sometimes overlook the quiet power that truly sustains our profession: the relationship between senior and junior lawyers.
This truth was recently brought to vivid life by the deeply emotional gesture of a newly elevated Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Ibim Simeon Dokubo, SAN, who publicly knelt before his former Principal, Se Alabo, to honour the man who shaped his career. It was a powerful, tear-jerking moment that resonated far beyond the courtroom and office dynamics.
Beyond Transactional Law: Investing in Legacy.
This gesture was more than a mere ceremony; it was a profound lesson in professional culture. It reminded us that the greatness of a senior lawyer is not measured by the number of cases won or salaries paid, but by the quality of the legal minds they intentionally mould.
For too long, the junior-senior relationship has been viewed in transactional terms. The narrative must change. We must champion an environment where mentorship is viewed as a sacred responsibility and the cornerstone of the NBA’s future.
As corporate and litigation lawyers, we must commit to this mandate by:
- Mentoring with Intention: Do not just delegate work; transfer knowledge. Explain the why behind the strategy and the ethics behind the decision.
- Correcting with Compassion: Young lawyers, much like young businesses, need firm guidance, not destructive criticism. Correction, delivered with compassion, builds resilience and loyalty.
- Giving Space to Grow: Trust your protégés with responsibility. The greatest gifts a mentor can give are the confidence and the platform to rise—to practice their "brilliance," as our industry requires.
The Ripple Effect of True Gratitude
When a young lawyer is treated with respect and given the opportunity to flourish, the entire profession benefits. The young lawyer under your wing today does not just represent a billable hour; they represent the Silk of tomorrow.
When they eventually rise to honour becoming a SAN, a Judge, or a Chief Legal Officer, their success will not just be a testament to their individual effort, but a shining reflection of the hands that deliberately shaped them.
Let us heed this powerful call to humility and gratitude. Let us ensure that our professional legacy is one of empowering others, thus building a stronger, more ethical, and perpetually self-renewing Nigerian Bar.
Below is an excerpt from the Facebook Post by Winnie Omuboba Morganson in the "LAWYERS IN NIGERIA" group:
"Learn to treat young lawyers under you with respect and give them the opportunity to grow.
Today, Ibim Simeon Dokubo, SAN, knelt before his principal, the most learned senior Se Alabo, wamina dabo O.T.K.D. Amachree, the man who taught him the law, to appreciate him for moulding him right.
It was indeed an emotional moment, as the crowd cheered with joy amid tears. A powerful reminder that humility and gratitude are the marks of true greatness.
Senior lawyers, let this be a lesson:
- Mentor with intention;
- Correct with compassion;
- Give space to grow;
The young lawyer under your wing today might become the silk tomorrow. And when that day comes, may they rise in honour, not just of their own success, but of the hands that helped shape them."
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