The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) is celebrating the remarkable achievement of Benedict Ater, who has made history by winning 18 awards at the Nigerian Law School (NLS), including the highly prestigious Council of Legal Education (CLE) Star Prize.
At the recent call to bar ceremony held at the Body of Benchers Complex in Abuja, Ater distinguished himself as the overall best-performing student.
The alumnus of Moses Orshio Adasu University, Makurdi (MOAUM), formerly Benue State University, secured multiple top prizes, highlighting his place as one of the most outstanding graduates in the history of the institution.
Sweeping 18 awards
Among his awards were the Council of Legal Education Star Prize, Overall Best Student Award, Most Promising Student of the Year, Best Student in Professional Ethics and Skills, and Best Student in Property Law Practice, among others.
His academic excellence drew admiration from the legal community, with many hailing his achievement as a shining example of resilience, discipline, and brilliance.
Leaders charge new lawyers with integrity
Speaking at the event, the Director General of the Nigerian Law School, Isa Hayatu Chiroma, SAN, reminded the new barristers that their greatest asset is their reputation, urging them to uphold integrity and professionalism in their practice.
Also addressing the ceremony, the Chairman of the Body of Benchers, Olukayode Olaiwola, advised the new lawyers to remain professional, respectful, cautious, and fair in their dealings, stressing the importance of treating others with dignity and consideration.
Pride for Benue State
Reacting to the achievement, Benue State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice and Public Order, Timothy Yangien, described Ater’s success as unsurprising, recalling his brilliance as a former student.
“This achievement has made both Benue State and Nigeria proud. I urge young people to emulate his resilience and commitment,” he said.
A life of consistent excellence
Speaking about his journey, Ater expressed profound gratitude to God, noting that he has always been the best graduating student at every stage of his education, from basic school through university and now the Nigerian Law School.
“Not only was I called to the Nigerian bar, I won a total of 18 awards including The Overall Best Student of the Year, Best Male Student of the Year, Best Student in Property Law Practice, Best Student in Professional Ethics and Skills, Most Promising Student of the Year, as well as the Council of Legal Education Star Prize. I thank God for not letting me down,” he said.