By Terna Chikpa, Jalingo
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Jalingo Branch, commenced its 2026 Law Week on Monday with a health walk aimed at promoting physical fitness and overall wellbeing among legal practitioners in Taraba State.
The exercise, held under the theme “Raising the Bar,” drew a large turnout of lawyers and judicial officers, highlighting a growing awareness of the need to balance the mental rigours of legal practice with physical health.
Participants gathered at the Magistrate Court complex, opposite the Government House junction, as early as 6:45 a.m., from where the walk began, covering about a four-mile route through major parts of Jalingo.
The procession moved through the Michelin Roundabout before returning to the starting point, creating a lively atmosphere that attracted public attention and reinforced the visibility of the legal community.
Speaking during the event, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Yakubu Maikasuwa, SAN, said the initiative was critical in ensuring that lawyers remain physically fit to cope with the demands of their profession.
He said, “This exercise is not just ceremonial. It is designed to help lawyers build stamina and reduce fatigue, especially during long court sessions. A healthy lawyer is a more effective lawyer.”
Also speaking, Chairman of the 2026 Law Week Planning Committee, Confidence Falack, noted that the health walk was deliberately incorporated into the programme to promote both physical and mental wellness.
According to him, “Lawyers exert a lot of mental pressure, but we must also pay attention to the body. This is not just an idle walk; it is a deliberate effort to keep fit, relieve stress, and improve productivity.”
Falack added that the initiative was particularly beneficial for judges and senior lawyers, who often have limited time for exercise due to demanding schedules.
“This programme gives them an opportunity to step outside the courtroom environment, relax, and experience a different environment while still investing in their health,” he said.
A participant and judicial officer, Clara Kataps, described the exercise as refreshing, noting that it provided a rare opportunity for members of the Bench and Bar to interact informally.
“It is encouraging to see such a turnout. Beyond fitness, this fosters unity and strengthens the bond within the legal community,” she said.
Another participant, Barrister Nierus Banadzem, said the initiative should be sustained beyond Law Week activities.
“We need to make this a culture. Our work is mentally demanding, and without good health, productivity will suffer. This is a step in the right direction,” he noted.
Falack further disclosed that the Law Week would feature medical check-ups, a novelty football match between senior and junior lawyers, as well as training and reorientation sessions.
Our correspondent reports that the strong participation of both the Bench and the Bar underscores a growing recognition that good health is essential for effective, ethical, and sustained legal practice.
Highly commendable and interesting.