The O.B. Lulu-Briggs Foundation awarded 63 Rivers State students in the Nigerian Law School a grant of N120,000 and a brand-new laptop each at its 14th Law School Students Scholarships award ceremony held last in Port Harcourt, state capita;.
The 63 recipients were the 2023 beneficiaries of the Foundation’s Law School Students Scholarships, from which 868 have benefited since its inception in 2009.
Chairman of the Foundation, Dr. Seinye O.B. Lulu-Briggs affirmed its belief in the transformational capacity of quality education.
Mrs Lulu-Briggs said: “The O.B. Lulu-Briggs Foundation firmly believes in the power of education and its ability to transform lives. Our Education and Scholarships programme improves access and attainment through initiatives supporting students who would otherwise be shut out due to financial constraints.
“We understand that pursuing a career in law is a challenging task. It demands an indomitable spirit, tireless effort and an unwavering commitment to upholding justice and to defending the rights of others. We recognise the tremendous trials that law students face, both academically and financially. That is why we established this scholarships program to provide a helping hand and support brilliant young minds on their journey towards becoming future leaders in the legal field”.
She further said that the awardees, “have demonstrated unwavering dedication, immense talent and a passion for the pursuit of justice throughout their studies. Therefore, assisting such extraordinary young minds with a scholarship that includes N120,000 and a brand-new laptop is an honour”.
Lulu-Briggs charged the awardees to use the resources wisely and always remember the values that led them to pursue a career in law.
“As future legal professionals, you have a unique opportunity to uphold the universal and timeless principles of justice and fairness. After completing Law School, I implore you also to use your legal knowledge and skills to champion the cause of justice, advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves and defend the marginalised”, she said.
The Guest Speaker, Justice Kate Abiri (rtd.) spoke on ‘Technology and the Legal Profession: Transforming the Legal Landscape”. The retired Chief Judge of Bayelsa State said that integrating technology in the legal landscape has enhanced efficiency, accuracy and accessibility.
She highlighted how Artificial Intelligence, blockchain technology, Online Dispute Resolution and E-discovery have transformed the legal profession.
Justice Abiri said Artificial Intelligence has emerged as a game changer in the legal field, transforming how lawyers perform research, analyse data and provide legal advice.
“Traditionally, lawyers had to review and analyse mountains of electronic data during litigation manually. AI algorithms, equipped with machine learning capabilities, can quickly identify and flag relevant documents, saving time and reducing costs. These advancements streamline the legal workflow and minimise human error, ensuring accuracy and consistency”, she said.
She stressed that lawyers needed to adapt to the technological advancements, noting that failure to do so “can result in reduced efficiency, decreased competitiveness and a diminished ability to serve clients effectively. As technology evolves, lawyers must develop technological literacy and embrace digital tools to enhance their practice”.
Justice Abiri, however, warned that lawyers must pay attention to data security and privacy when adopting technology.
“The increased reliance on technology exposes law firms and their clients to potential cyber threats and data breaches. Implementing robust cybersecurity measures, training staff on best practices, and staying informed about evolving threats are essential for safeguarding sensitive client information and maintaining trust”, she said.
Deputy Director General/Head of Campus of the Nigerian Law School, Port Harcourt, Mr. Chinonso Mmuozoba, who was the occasion chairman, said that the students would benefit from adopting technology.
Other speakers, including a former Chairman of the Body of Benchers, Chief Onueze Chukwujinka Okocha and the representative of the Rivers State Attorney General commended the O.B. Lulu-Briggs Foundation’s uncommon philanthropy for boosting legal education in the country through its Law School Students Scholarship to grow young legal minds.
Okocha, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, said: “I congratulate the O.B. Lulu-Briggs Foundation for sustaining this scholarship scheme over the years. I also congratulate the recipients and advise you not to take this for granted. You are a select few from the many that applied. I know that financial resources are not so readily available to your parents and those supporting your education, so use what you have been given well. Also, remember that honesty and dedication are hallmarks of this profession”.
Beneficiaries of the scholarship also applauded and thanked the O.B. Lulu-Briggs Foundation, promising to use the resources well.
