Goodluck Jonathan Expresses Hope Amid Economic Challenges

Former President Goodluck Jonathan expressed optimism that Nigeria will overcome its current socio-economic challenges through collaborative efforts, underpinned by divine grace.

Speaking at the “2024 Annual Law Week” of the Yenagoa Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association, Jonathan emphasized the need for concerted actions to address the prevailing economic hardships affecting the nation.

At the event held in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Jonathan, represented by HRM Collins Daniel, the Paramount Ruler of Abureni Clan, acknowledged the theme of the law week, “The Legal Profession in a Time of Socio-Economic Uncertainty,” as timely and crucial. He drew parallels with past economic crises, recalling the Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP) introduced in the 1980s and the global recession of 2016-2019, expressing confidence that Nigeria would weather the current challenges.

Justice Obande Ogbuinya of the Supreme Court, delivering a keynote speech titled “Socio-Economic Uncertainty of Legal Practices in Nigeria: The Law in the Global Economy,” highlighted the severe economic instability facing Nigeria. He underscored rampant inflation, dwindling purchasing power, and the plummeting value of the Naira as critical issues exacerbating the country’s economic woes.

In response, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, acknowledged the global nature of the economic crisis affecting Nigeria and other regions. He urged legal practitioners to innovate amidst adversity, emphasizing the federal government’s commitment to supporting vulnerable populations and addressing the economic challenges.

Chief Judge of Bayelsa State, Justice Matilda Ayemieye, stressed the pivotal role of legal practitioners in adapting to economic uncertainties through legislative drafting, legal challenges, and upholding justice. She emphasized that the legal profession plays a crucial role in maintaining stability and advocating fairness during turbulent times.

The gathering underscored the urgent need for collaborative efforts between government stakeholders and legal professionals to navigate Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges and ensure the well-being of its citizens.