The chairman-elect of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Jalingo Branch, Dr Daniel Philemon Saredau, has said his administration will prioritise the digitalisation of bar practice to improve public access to the association's activities in Taraba State.

Dr Saredau also disclosed that strategic engagement with government and other critical stakeholders would form a key part of his administration's agenda, aimed at promoting public interest advocacy and ensuring government fulfils its responsibilities to society.

According to the newly elected chairman, the branch plans to leverage technology through the creation of a website and a digital members' portal that will allow lawyers to access resources and make payments online.

"Our desire is to lift the bar," Saredau said.

He assured members that the branch would remain committed to human rights advocacy and public interest matters, while promoting social justice and access to justice.

"We want to digitalise bar practice. Our desire is to improve members' welfare and promote the rule of law.

"We will create a branch website and make use of technology to move the branch to the next level. We hope to establish a digital members' portal where members can access resources and make payments online.

"Our target is to build a strong online presence that will enable members of the public to easily access information about the activities of the bar," he said.

Saredau also expressed his commitment to strengthening collaboration between the bar, the bench and security agencies to enhance the administration of justice.

"Our predecessors have done their best, but we want to build a stronger relationship between the bar, the bench and security agencies, as we are all stakeholders in the criminal justice system.

"We will create strategic partnerships with government by engaging critical stakeholders to ensure that government understands its responsibilities to society and appreciates the role lawyers play in protecting public interest.

"We will encourage open conversations to ensure that meaningful ideas for development are considered," he added.

The chairman-elect further pledged to improve the capacity of the bar centre and transform it into a more functional workspace for members.

"We have plans to attract infrastructure development. We intend to build a guest house that will further enhance members' welfare.

"We also want to create opportunities for social and recreational activities, giving lawyers avenues to unwind beyond their legal practice," he said.

Tribune Online reports that the NBA Jalingo Branch on Saturday elected Dr Daniel Philemon Saredau as its chairman.

Other elected officers include Musa Danji Mohammed, Vice Chairman; Nasiru Muhammad, Secretary; Musa Hosea, Assistant Secretary; Longs Lugnan Takdok, Public Relations Officer; Madinatu Alhaji Kabiru, Treasurer; Fonga Umaru Fonga, Welfare Secretary; Mujahid Mukhtar, Provost; and Thomson D. Tahir, Social Secretary.