Chrisland University, Abeokuta, played host to legal icons and academia on Friday, June 13, as the 2025 Annual Law Dinner of the Faculty of Law brought together students, judges, lawyers and top university officials for an evening of inspiration, mentorship and professional guidance.
The dinner, held at the university’s marquee, was aimed at formally welcoming new law undergraduates into the legal tradition while offering insights into the values of the profession.
The event featured speeches from senior members of the Bench and Bar, all of whom emphasized character, discipline and continuous learning as key pillars of success in law.
Representing the Honourable Chief Judge of Ogun State, Justice M.A. Dipeolu, at the event, Justice Adetokunbo Jibodu of the Ogun State High Court, urged the students to take their legal training seriously, describing the profession as one that demands the highest level of responsibility.
“The legal profession is conservative in nature and demands the highest levels of discipline, diligence and integrity.”
“Legal training is not just about passing exams. It is the bedrock that prepares you to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of a society governed by justice, fairness and the rule of law,” he said.
He encouraged the students to take advantage of every learning opportunity while in school and during their court attachments.
“When the time comes for your court programme, pay attention to proceedings and do not hesitate to ask questions where necessary after the court has risen,” he added.
In his keynote address, renowned legal practitioner and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Sola Ojutalayo, SAN, charged the students to embrace both academic and ethical excellence, describing law as a lifelong calling to serve and make impact.
“The study of law is more than an academic pursuit. It is a call to serve, to take responsibility, and to make an impact,” he said.
Quoting the poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, he reminded the students that the heights attained in the profession come through consistency and hard work.
“Success in this noble profession demands sacrifice, diligence and a relentless commitment to excellence — even when no one is watching,” he stressed.
While stressing the evolving nature of legal practice, Ojutalayo noted that the courtroom is not the only path to relevance.
“Today, we have lawyers in entertainment law, tech, sports, intellectual property, data privacy, arbitration and more. The profession is wide and full of opportunities,” he stated.
The Acting Dean of the Faculty of Law, Dr. Kayode Akinsola, in his welcome address, described the event as a celebration of the institution’s values, achievements and ambitions.
“Tonight is not just a celebration of academic excellence and professional ambition, it is a celebration of community, legacy, and the future of legal education.”
“As Acting Dean, I am proud of what we have achieved together,” he said.
Also speaking, the guest lecturer, Mr. Adeyinka Kotoye, SAN, offered practical tips on succeeding as a law student and legal practitioner advised students to build their careers on the foundation of hard work, integrity and professional courtesy.
“You must be ready to work hard, compete, but never compromise. Be bold and never timid. Accord the same courtesy to your colleagues regardless of class or status,” he said.
In his goodwill message, Justice O.O. Ogunfowora called on students to reflect on their journey and stay focused on their goals.
“Use this moment as a time to reflect and position yourself rightly for the future,” he said.
On his part, the Registrar of the University, Mr. Samuel Omotosho, also commended the students for their dedication, while expressing optimism about their future in the profession.
Also speaking, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Oyedunni Sola Arulogun, who served as the chief host, thanked all guests and participants for making the event memorable, while also emphasizing the importance of moral conduct in the legal profession.
“Knowledge with excellent character takes you far. Our vision is to produce lawyers who are not only brilliant but also trustworthy and responsible,” she said.
Special recognition awards were presented to distinguished personalities, faculty members and students for their contributions to legal education and mentorship.
