The Minister of State for Works, Rt. Hon. Bello Muhammad Goronyo, underscored the critical importance of the rule of law and professional ethics during the 2026 Caliphate Bar Week of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Sokoto State Branch.
The event, held on Sunday, April 14, 2026, brought together distinguished assembly of legal professionals, jurists, policy- makers, and stakeholders to address the evolving role of the legal profession in national development.
Under the theme “A Secure Nation, A Secure Future,” the week-long programme in Sokoto was meticulously organized by Barr. Rashidat Mohammed, Chairperson of the NBA Sokoto Branch.
It featured a series of intellectual engagements, policy dialogues, and
networking sessions, all aimed at enhancing the administration of justice and fostering professional excellence within the legal community.
In his address, Rt. Hon. Goronyo expressed his appreciation for the growing global recognition and relevance of the legal profession.
He highlighted the increasingly vital role
of legal practitioners in confronting contemporary societal challenges and urged members to uphold the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and ethical conduct in their duties.
The Minister emphasized that the legal profession serves as a fundamental pillar in safeguarding democracy, ensuring justice, and promoting peace and stability across society.
He further asserted that a robust, independent, and ethical legal system is
indispensable for achieving national development goals and protecting citizens’ rights.
The Minister also stressed the necessity of synergy between legal institutions and
government agencies to drive reforms that will improve access to justice and strengthen public confidence in the rule of law. 
He reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, to institutional strengthening and the advancement of policies that promote transparency, accountability, and national cohesion.
As a member of both the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the International Bar Association (IBA), Rt. Hon. Goronyo conveyed his honour in participating alongside eminent personalities.
These included His Excellency Dr. Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto, the Executive Governor of Sokoto State; Prince Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi, SAN, the Honourable Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice; Hon. Justice Muhammad Sa’idu Sifawa.Also, the Chief Judge of Sokoto State; Barr. Nasiru Binji, the Sokoto State
Commissioner for Justice; and Barr. Rashidat Mohammed, Esq., Chairperson of the NBA Sokoto Branch.
Goronyo extended commendation to Governor Dr. Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto for his
unwavering support and his strategic investments in bolstering the justice sector within the state.
He noted that such efforts are crucial for deepening the rule of law, enhancing judicial efficiency, and fostering transparency and accountability in governance.
Concluding his remarks, the Honourable Minister encouraged continuous engagement among stakeholders in the legal profession to ensure that the justice system remains responsive, inclusive, and aligned with global best practices.
