By Stephen Simon
The 20th Annual International Business Law Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association Section on Business Law (NBA-SBL) commenced in Abuja on Monday with a strong call for policymakers, regulators, business leaders and legal practitioners to move beyond policy pronouncements and critically assess whether recent economic and legal reforms are delivering tangible results.
The three-day conference, holding at the Abuja Continental Hotel from June 8 to June 10, is themed, “Beyond Reforms: Measuring Policy Impact.” Organisers say the event is designed to evaluate the effectiveness of reforms introduced across key sectors of the Nigerian economy and identify pathways for sustainable growth and development.
The conference comes at a time when Nigeria continues to implement far-reaching economic, fiscal and regulatory reforms aimed at attracting investment, improving productivity and strengthening public institutions. While many of these initiatives have been welcomed by investors and development partners, concerns remain over their impact on businesses and ordinary citizens.
According to the NBA-SBL, this year’s conference marks a significant milestone as it celebrates the 20th edition of its flagship gathering, widely regarded as one of Africa’s leading forums for discussions on business law, policy and economic development.
Organisers said discussions throughout the conference will focus on assessing the practical outcomes of reforms rather than merely examining the policies themselves. Participants are expected to explore how reforms can create measurable value, adapt to changing economic realities and support long-term national development objectives.
The conference is expected to attract a diverse audience comprising legal practitioners, policymakers, regulators, business executives, investors, academics and development experts. Deliberations will cover a broad range of issues affecting Nigeria’s business environment, regulatory framework and investment climate.
Chairman of the NBA-SBL, Ozofu Ogiemudia, has described the conference as more than a professional gathering, noting that over the years it has evolved into a platform that contributes to business growth, policy development and economic progress in Nigeria.
Stakeholders are expected to use the forum to generate evidence-based recommendations that could help shape future reforms and strengthen confidence in Nigeria’s economic and regulatory landscape. As conversations begin in Abuja, attention will be focused on whether current reforms are achieving their intended objectives and what adjustments may be required to ensure lasting impact.
