The West African Law Students Association (WALSA) honoured Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN with a professional life achievement award during its International Justice Conference which was held on 4th September at the Olusegun Obasanjo Hall, Federal Ministry of Justice, Abuja. The conference was attended by students from different universities across West Africa.

During the conference, Madu Joe-Kyari Gadzama, Esq. delivered Chief Gadzama, SAN’s paper that focussed on the role of technology in strengthening cross-border judicial cooperation in West Africa. According to the Learned Silk, ” In Africa where diversity is both strength and a challenge, technology emerges as a beacon of hope in the realm of cross-border judicial cooperation. It bridges geographical divides, facilitates information exchange, strengthens legal capacity, combats transnational crime and fosters regional unity…”

The Learned Silk shared the belief that technology is an indispensable tool in shaping a brighter tomorrow and that with the right investments in infrastructure, training, and collaboration, West Africa can harness the full potential of technology to build a future where justice knows no borders and the rule of law reigns supreme.

Chief Gadzama, SAN is well known for his passion and dedication toward mentoring and we have observed his enthusiasm in mentoring both young lawyers and law students in a bid to provide them with the professional guidance that he was not privileged to have during his days as a law student/young lawyer. Chief Gadzama, SAN is the current Chairman of the Body of Benchers Mentoring Committee. His annual mentoring scheme, the Hon. Justice Chukwudifu Oputa (Rtd) Professional Training and Mentoring Programme, has gained popularity and relevance in the Nigerian legal space as hundreds of young lawyers apply to participate and indeed gain from the experience.

The WALSA also launched its magazine titled ‘Beyond Borders – Advancing Justice for a Connected West Africa’ during the conference.