…NBA Excellence Award, according to the branch leadership, reflects Oli’s commitment to legal practice.
AWKA, NIGERIA — The iNews Times reports that the NBA Excellence Award has been conferred on Barrister Chukwudi Oli, a frontline House of Representatives aspirant for Dunukofia, Njikoka and Anaocha Federal Constituency of Anambra State, in recognition of what legal practitioners described as his dedication to the profession and service to society.
The honour was bestowed by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Awka Branch, during the 5th edition of the Ozo Amanke Okafor Memorial Lecture held in Awka, the Anambra State capital. The NBA Excellence Award, according to the branch leadership, reflects Oli’s commitment to legal practice, punctuality, service delivery, and sustained support for the association and the less privileged.
Barr. Oli is contesting under the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in the 2027 general elections. His recognition by the NBA comes at a time when political activities are gradually gathering momentum ahead of the next electoral cycle.
Speaking at the event, Chairman of NBA Awka Branch, Barrister Nnamdi Anagor, explained that the NBA Excellence Award was unanimously approved by members of the branch in appreciation of Oli’s contributions to the legal profession and his consistency in bar activities across Nigeria.
According to Anagor, the award recognized Oli’s “exemplary punctuality, dedication to duty, and outstanding commitment to the timely and effective practice of law in accordance with the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
He added that members of the branch regard Oli as a dependable supporter of the NBA and an active participant in initiatives aimed at strengthening the legal profession in Nigeria.
Similarly, Chairman of the Organising Committee, Barrister G.U. Moneke, commended Oli’s humanitarian efforts, noting that beyond his legal practice, he has remained supportive of initiatives targeted at uplifting the less privileged within and outside Anambra State.
In his acceptance speech, Oli described the honour as deeply personal and emotionally fulfilling, referring to the NBA as his “primary constituency.”
“I feel so happy receiving this award from my primary constituency,” he said. “Law is what I do for a living. It is what I have been doing all my life. Getting this recognition from this primary constituency makes me feel fulfilled.”
He reaffirmed his commitment to the association, stating that the recognition would spur him to do more for the NBA and the larger society.
“I have been participating actively in bar activities across Nigeria. I am a bar man to the core, and this recognition will encourage me to continue contributing to the association and to society at large,” he added.
Oli used the occasion to reiterate his political ambition ahead of the 2027 general elections. He is seeking to represent Dunukofia, Njikoka and Anaocha Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.
He stressed that legal professionals must play a frontline role in strengthening democratic institutions, promoting justice, and upholding the rule of law.
According to him, if elected into the Green Chamber in 2027, he would leverage his legal background to advance policies that promote transparency, accountability and progressive reforms.
“I have a vision for Anambra to be a front-runner in implementing progressive reforms in all sectors of human existence in the years ahead,” Oli said.
He further appealed to constituents across Dunukofia, Njikoka and Anaocha to support his ambition, assuring them of responsible representation rooted in transparency and accountability.
“I am running to contribute my quota to nation-building. I appeal to the good people of the constituency to support my ambition so that I can showcase transparent and accountable governance,” he stated.
The NBA Excellence Award is regarded within legal circles as a recognition of professional integrity and service. Awards presented during memorial lectures, particularly those honouring distinguished members of the legal community, often serve as platforms to highlight excellence in advocacy, discipline, and ethical conduct.
Legal analysts note that recognition from professional bodies such as the NBA carries weight because it reflects peer assessment rather than political endorsement. While Oli’s political ambition is public knowledge, the NBA leadership framed the honour strictly within the context of professional merit and service.
The 5th Ozo Amanke Okafor Memorial Lecture, where the award was presented, attracted members of the bench and bar, as well as political stakeholders and civil society actors.
With the 2027 general elections still months away, early endorsements and recognitions are beginning to shape conversations within political constituencies. Anambra State, known for its vibrant political landscape, is expected to witness intense competition across parties, particularly in federal legislative seats.
Observers say candidates with strong professional backgrounds and community ties may have strategic advantages as voters increasingly demand competence, accountability, and visible impact.
For Oli, the NBA Excellence Award adds a professional credential at a time when credibility and track record are central to public scrutiny.
