In a significant step towards improving Nigeria’s business and legal environment, the Ernest Shonekan Centre for Legislative Reforms and Economic Development (ESC) and the Nigerian Bar Association Section on Business Law (NBA-SBL) have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Lagos to formalise their strategic partnership.
The two organisations have been collaborating informally since 2016, when they contributed to the Comprehensive Review of Institutional, Regulatory, Legislative, and Associated Instruments Affecting Businesses in Nigeria, conducted under the UK-DFID ENABLE2 and GEMS3 projects and led by Professor Paul Idornigie, SAN.
Chairman of ESC, Kyari Bukar, described the formal agreement as a milestone in a long-standing relationship dedicated to strengthening Nigeria’s institutional frameworks. “Today is not just a ceremonial exercise; it is the formalisation of a strategic partnership rooted in a shared vision to strengthen Nigeria’s legislative, judicial, and regulatory systems that support its economic transformation,” Bukar stated.
He emphasized the importance of structured cooperation in promoting legislative advocacy, economic development, and professional excellence in business law.
Mrs. Ozofu Ogiemudia, Chair of NBA-SBL, also highlighted the urgent need for reforms within Nigeria’s legal and regulatory systems. “With this partnership, we are taking a decisive step towards addressing these critical issues head-on,” she said. Ogiemudia noted that a robust legal framework is key to attracting investment, encouraging innovation, and ensuring a fair, competitive business environment.
She emphasized that the MoU will serve as a guiding framework to:
- Jointly conduct legal and regulatory research
- Promote impactful policy advocacy
- Organise workshops and capacity-building programmes
- Engage regulators through dialogue
- Ensure transparency and accountability in reform efforts
“Our collaboration will actively improve the ease of doing business in Nigeria through meticulous analysis of legislative gaps and informed engagement on key policy matters,” Ogiemudia concluded.
This formal partnership marks a pivotal step in efforts to reform Nigeria’s business environment, with both institutions committed to fostering a more transparent, competitive, and investor-friendly economy.
