Author: Ifunanya

From the topic, it’s evident we’re going to be discussing one of the most ‘charismatic’ institutions in the Country. In conjunction, I will be sharing a somewhat brief personal journey of mine as I went through the motions in NLS.

Every Nigerian, perhaps even most Africans are aware that NLS isn’t a walk in the park. It’s like, ‘You’re in Law School? Ah, it’s too difficult o’. ‘Suffer-head’ is exactly what it’s projected as! On the contrary, my journey made me realize it isn’t as bad as it is portrayed. I clicked this fact just at the very end, and I’ll elaborate further on this statement.

I was in the Covid-19 set in the Lagos campus. Now, One will imagine the chaos and confusion. Oh, it was intense pressure. From the curriculum; to the stern dress code; to the long break in lectures; to the bragging rights of the various campuses, of which Lagos was topmost on the list. In spite of these, I can’t deny that it was a life changing experience. It opened my eyes to see one of the many bitter-sweet moments.

The lockdown period was honestly a tale of unfortunate events. The whirlwind of emotional and traumatic situations subjected my mind to the darkest of places; at that point, I wasn’t in the right stead for the Bar finals. I literally was not prepared. However, I went ahead and sat for the exams, because I could not, and still cannot accept defeat. I was perhaps expecting a miracle of some sort.

The 2020/21 came to the finish line; results were published, and there was the Call to Bar. Can anyone imagine how little rocks live in One’s heart? That was how I felt not scaling through. I should have listened to my guts not to sit for the exams. Notwithstanding, I gradually recuperated from the disappointment. Thanks to my family- My Loving and most beautiful Mother, and friends.

May 2022 was the proposed month for another examination. This time, I guarded my loins and took the bull by the horn. While I was doing my Youth Service, I also tasked myself academically.

Again, there were oppositions, probably even more intense than the previous academic session. My goodness! I started to feel my village people were after me. From health challenges, to advanced emotional palava, to family, etc. But no, what we do not know can never know us! If there are no challenges and hurdles to overcome, what story do we then tell? None.

One very important aspect of NLS is using tutorial classes as a supplement. As much as the lecturers try to be as didactic as possible- especially in the Lagos campus, the bulk of work and syllabus to be covered just cost a whole lot. Sincerely, the best bet is to engage in tutorials/study groups, except for the “Einsteins”. In my case, I failed to do this. That was an actual daft stunt I pulled considering the weight and excess pressure.

Nevertheless, lessons learnt, and I registered for classes with Mr. Caleb Oboagwina, Esq. of the EasyRead group, who was/is instrumental to lots of academic excellence in the Abuja Campus. The ride was easier and much more exciting, including the passion and enthusiasm I had (abandoning social activities and looks). Surely, getting one of the best results wasn’t far-fetched!

Recap from the second paragraph when I elucidated that Law School wasn’t as tough as it appeared- the above reasons state why. Not forgetting Abba Father first and foremost. His Grace and Mercy know no bounds!

The time finally came to write the exams. The sleepless nights, the times I knelt down talking and crying deeply for God’s help and the battles I fought and won, proved to me that absolutely anything is possible. Long story short, not only myself, but friends turned sisters all made it!

The Call to Bar ceremony was a success, despite the current insurgency and insecurity in Nigeria. I am now addressed as; Ifunanya Chidi, Esq. What can I say? I’m eternally grateful to God. To think that I almost vehemently refused to re-write the exams! Delay is never denial.

Meanwhile, I decided to feature few of the most intelligent and beautiful women (my humble self included) that walked this path, and came out souring high. They appear from previous years till date.

Maryam Muhammed, Esq: “The grading system made it very difficult to be hopeful, but law school taught me never to underestimate the power of Dua.”

Hadiza A. Gulak, Esq: “NLS was an eye opening roller coaster ride that prepared me for the journey ahead.”

Nabila A. Bayero, Esq: “Going through NLS was the most emotionally, mentally, traumatic experience I ever had, and I eventually conquered.”

Maryam Dan-Habu, Esq: “NLS was like swimming in an ocean with your best-friends, and trying not to slip up or down- endgame? We made it to the shore.”

Michelle A. Eke, Esq: “My time in NLS was marked with many tears, laughter, confusion, and even more laughter I’d never forget.”

Ama Nkuah, Esq: “My NLS experience seemed like an unending one because the hurdles and uncertainties were overwhelming; grateful to God I closed this chapter.”

Chidimma L. Chukwuani, Esq: “NLS gave me a bitter sweet experience, the curriculum and pandemic almost had me lose my mind, but I came out better than ever.”

Aisha S. Sufi, Esq: “NLS was fun and very challenging for me- nothing good comes easily, but we all came out in flying colors.”

Ifunanya Chidi, Esq: “All I can say is, NLS and everything that came with it taught me resilience and perseverance with the help of Abba.”

For those considering the Nigerian legal system as a form of practice by getting into NLS, be as proactive as you must be. Someone once told me; ‘It’s a lot easier to fail than it is to pass in NLS.’ That is the absolute truth!

You can also do it. Don’t give up!

With Love,

Ify.