Nigerian businessman and entrepreneur Godfrey Ohuabunwa has realized a lifelong dream of becoming a lawyer after decades of perseverance, overcoming repeated admission setbacks and finally being called to the Nigerian Bar.
Ohuabunwa was formally called to the Bar on Tuesday, describing the milestone as “a testament to perseverance, faith and commitment to a lifelong dream.”
Reflecting on his journey in a statement, he said his experience proves that delayed dreams can still become reality.
“Dreams may be delayed, but they are not denied,” he said.
According to Ohuabunwa, he had aspired to study law from childhood and made several attempts to gain admission after completing secondary school.
Although he met the admission requirements, he was repeatedly offered a place in English Language and Literature due to admission limitations, including the catchment policy.
Rather than abandon his ambition, he excelled in his degree program, enrolled in available law courses, and pursued opportunities to transfer to the Faculty of Law.
After graduating from the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID), he returned years later to study law during the COVID-19 pandemic.
He completed the program with outstanding results before proceeding to the Nigerian Law School, where he successfully finished his professional legal training.
On July 7, more than four decades after first chasing his dream, Ohuabunwa was officially called to the Nigerian Bar.
The Harvard alumnus attributed his success to resilience, unwavering faith and divine grace.
Recalling a turning point in his life, he said:
“In 1995, I surrendered my life to Christ. That decision transformed my character, strengthened my discipline, deepened my faith and became the foundation upon which I built every subsequent success.
“I believe that while determination opened doors, God’s grace made the impossible possible.”
He encouraged people facing delays and setbacks not to abandon their aspirations but to remain patient and committed to achieving their goals.
Being called to the Bar marks the successful completion of the Bar Final Examinations and vocational training at the Nigerian Law School.
The ceremony, organized by the Body of Benchers, culminates in successful candidates being formally enrolled on the roll of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, qualifying them to practice as legal practitioners in the country.
SOURCE: NAN
