On Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at 1:00 p.m., the 2025 NBA Lagos Annual Law Conference brought legal professionals from across the country to speak on a panel discussion titled:
“The Business of Law – Profitability Without Compromising Professionalism.”
And what a session it was.
Here are some excerpts from Lateef Omoyemi Akangbe, SAN, FCIArb(UK)’s contribution during the discussion:
📜“Profitability is not the only means of measuring success for law firms, Client retention, the ability to attract lawyers, sustainability, longevity, training and impacting younger lawyers, even taking on pro bono cases — these are the true hallmarks of a successful legal practice.”📜
In a legal landscape increasingly shaped by competition, tech disruption, and client demands, L.O. Akangbe, SAN, FCIArb(UK) reminded lawyers, most especially firm leaders, to look beyond profit margins.
This perspective sparked applause and nods from attendees, many of whom were managing partners, young lawyers, and policy stakeholders. The message was clear: great law firms don’t just make money — they make impact.
📜“There is no fast lane to success. Appreciate the fact that success takes time — but you will get there.”📜
L.O. Akangbe, SAN, FCIArb(UK)’s advice to young professionals was equally powerful and sobering.
In a world driven by instant results and social media hype, this message landed as a necessary reset. His words encouraged patience, resilience, and commitment to the long game of legal excellence.
📜“As lawyers, we have a higher call to uphold the law and observe ethical rules of our profession.”📜
As a former Chairman of the NBA Lagos Branch and a current partner at SOOB Legal Practitioners, L.O. Akangbe, SAN, FCIArb(UK) has walked the talk. That’s why his third and final message hit home.
Simply put, he stated that there is THE HIGHER CALLING OF LAW which every lawyer must answer and live by.
This reminder served as the moral anchor of the session. It was a call to purpose and professional dignity, not just business growth and racking up the profits.
To sum it up, the panel session wasn’t just informative — it was energizing. It showed that building a profitable law firm in Nigeria is not at odds with upholding professional values. Rather, the two can (and must) work hand in hand.
If there’s one thing this panel proved, it’s this:
📌“Being a lawyer in 2025 is more than chasing clients or cash; it is actually about leaving a legacy.”
Lateef O. Akangbe, SAN’s words didn’t just inspire. They challenged. And most importantly, they pointed the profession toward a higher standard, one every lawyer should aspire to achieve.
Day 3 of the 2025 NBA Lagos Law Conference wasn’t just another day of the event, it was a reflection of where the legal profession is headed. With voices like L.O. Akangbe, SAN, FCIArb(UK) and other notable legal dignitaries leading the charge, it’s clear that Nigeria’s legal future is rooted in both excellence and integrity.
As lawyers continue to navigate modern challenges such as AI, legal tech, billable hours and firm growth; this session offered a crucial reminder:
✅ Stay profitable
✅ Stay ethical
✅ Stay purpose-driven
Because the business of law is still a noble calling.
📌Final Thoughts and Key takeouts:
If there’s one thing this panel proved, it’s this: Being a lawyer in 2025 is more than chasing clients or cash — it’s about leaving a legacy.
Lateef O. Akangbe, SAN’s words didn’t just inspire. They challenged. And most importantly, they pointed the profession toward a higher standard — one every lawyer should aspire to.
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