The Law Graduates’ Association of Nigeria (LAWGAN) has called on the Council of Legal Education to urgently admit graduates of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) Faculty of Law into the Nigerian Law School.
The association also urged authorities to resolve the longstanding backlog affecting law graduates from Abia State University (ABSU) and other institutions experiencing similar challenges.
In a statement released on Thursday ahead of the resumption of a new academic session at the Nigerian Law School in March 2026, LAWGAN described the continued delays and exclusions as unfair and harmful to aspiring legal practitioners.
The statement, signed by its President, Kayode Bello, and Public Relations Officer, Ojo Clement, noted that NOUN law graduates have for years faced uncertainty and denial of admission into the Nigerian Law School despite completing accredited academic programmes.
It further explained that ABSU graduates affected by administrative and accreditation issues, alongside others in comparable situations, have endured prolonged delays that have disrupted their professional advancement.
LAWGAN stressed that graduates who have fulfilled all academic requirements at recognized institutions deserve equal access to vocational legal training, in line with constitutional principles of fairness, equality, and the right to education.
The association demanded immediate clarification on the admission status and pathway for NOUN law graduates and others affected by backlogs. It also called for swift measures to clear the ABSU backlog and ensure transparent communication, including a clear timeline for resolution.
Additionally, the group appealed to the Federal Ministry of Justice and the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation to intervene and facilitate engagement among relevant stakeholders.
While commending the efforts of the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), toward ensuring admission for NOUN law graduates, LAWGAN warned that continued delays risk undermining confidence in Nigeria’s legal education system.
According to the association, failing to address the issue promptly unfairly penalizes graduates who have invested substantial time, effort, and financial resources in pursuing legal careers. It urged all relevant authorities to act swiftly to safeguard fairness, national development, and the integrity of the legal profession.