Reported by: Ime Richard Aondofa | Edited by Henry Owen
Abuja – In a ceremony that brought together the pinnacles of Nigeria’s legal, political, and economic leadership, Shuaibu Magaji Labaran Ph.D was formally conferred with the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) at the Supreme Court of Nigeria. The event was attended by Governor of Nasarawa State, His Excellency Engr. Abdullahi A. Sule, Hon Justice Sidi Bage Muhammad I, Rtd, Emir of Lafia and Chairman of the Nasarawa State Council of Chiefs, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, Retired Chief Justice of Nigeria, and Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, globally recognized economist and former Director-General of the World Trade Organization.
The conferment of SAN, the highest honor in Nigerian legal practice, recognizes outstanding achievement, professional integrity, and contributions to jurisprudence. Labaran’s elevation is seen as a testament to decades of dedication, legal scholarship, and service to society. His peers describe him as a mentor, strategist, and advocate whose influence extends beyond the courtroom into policy-making and institutional development.
Governor Sule, speaking at the event, praised Labaran for his remarkable career and underscored the significance of the SAN rank to Nasarawa State and the nation at large. “Today, we celebrate a man whose career embodies dedication, excellence, and service. Shuaibu Magaji Labaran’s elevation reminds us that integrity, commitment, and professionalism are recognized and rewarded,” the Governor said. He highlighted that such achievements inspire young professionals to uphold ethical standards while striving for excellence in their respective fields.
Justice Olukayode Ariwoola emphasized that the SAN rank is more than a professional title—it is a mark of distinction reflecting a lawyer’s contribution to society. “The recognition of Shuaibu Magaji Labaran is a demonstration of how meritocracy and dedication to law can shape national discourse. The judiciary supports excellence, and such celebrations reinforce the importance of ethical legal practice,” he stated.
Hon Justice Sidi Bage Muhammad I lauded Labaran’s achievement as a source of pride for Nasarawa State, noting the symbolic impact it has on the youth. “This conferment is an inspiration to our young lawyers. It sends a strong message that hard work, ethical conduct, and service to the nation are pathways to national recognition,” he said.
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala highlighted the wider societal impact of such professional accomplishments. She observed that strong legal institutions are fundamental to creating an enabling environment for economic development, accountability, and public trust. “The elevation of Dr. Labaran reinforces confidence in Nigeria’s institutions. It demonstrates that merit and professionalism remain critical pillars for national progress,” she noted.
The event drew significant public attention, with reactions pouring in across social media platforms. Legal practitioners, students, and civil society organizations hailed Labaran’s elevation as a milestone for the legal profession. Many emphasized that the SAN rank is not only recognition of personal excellence but also a responsibility to mentor young lawyers and promote ethical practice.
Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke, a legal scholar at the University of Abuja, reflected on the broader implications: “Labaran’s elevation to SAN is a significant moment for Nigeria’s legal system. It reinforces the importance of professionalism, ethical practice, and mentorship. Young lawyers now have a tangible example of how dedication and integrity are rewarded at the national level.”
Law students attending the ceremony expressed inspiration and renewed motivation. Blessing Nwachukwu, a final-year law student, said, “Seeing someone from our state achieve SAN motivates me to pursue excellence in my career. It shows that hard work, focus, and ethical practice do not go unnoticed.” Another student, Chinedu Okafor, remarked, “Labaran’s journey illustrates that law is not just a profession but a service to society. This encourages all of us to aim for impact beyond the courtroom.”
Observers noted that Labaran’s conferment could influence reforms in legal practice, particularly in mentoring, pro bono services, and advocacy for justice. Experts highlighted that SANs often play a critical role in shaping jurisprudence, advising government, and influencing public policy. Dr. Okeke added, “The presence of leaders like Governor Sule and Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala underscores the intersection of law, governance, and economic development. Professionals like Labaran serve as bridges between these sectors, enhancing national development.”
Labaran’s career trajectory reflects a blend of academic rigor, courtroom excellence, and public service. Over the years, he has been involved in high-profile cases, policy advisory roles, and institutional reforms. His peers note that his work has consistently upheld the rule of law, promoted transparency, and mentored emerging legal talent. The conferment of SAN, therefore, represents not only personal achievement but also recognition of his contributions to strengthening legal institutions in Nigeria.
The ceremony also served as a reminder of the symbolic power of the SAN title. It highlights the importance of dedication, merit, and professionalism as cornerstones of the legal profession. Attendees emphasized that while the title is prestigious, it also carries with it responsibilities—to uphold justice, mentor the next generation, and contribute to the nation’s socio-economic and legal development.
Governor Sule’s attendance, alongside national leaders and renowned professionals, further underscored the importance of cross-sectoral collaboration in Nigeria. Events of this nature celebrate individual achievement but also reinforce the principles of excellence, integrity, and mentorship that underpin national progress.
As Shuaibu Magaji Labaran takes his place among the distinguished Senior Advocates of Nigeria, his story is already inspiring the next generation of lawyers, demonstrating that perseverance, ethical practice, and commitment to service can lead to national recognition. The legal profession and society at large stand to benefit from his continued contributions as a mentor, advocate, and thought leader.
The conferment of SAN upon Labaran is more than a personal triumph; it is a celebration of professionalism, meritocracy, and commitment to the rule of law in Nigeria. It affirms that excellence is acknowledged, integrity is rewarded, and dedication to the nation’s legal system can leave an enduring legacy.
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