How Lawyers Can Live Long
By
Wale Ojo- Lanre Esq
Distinguished members of the Ado Ekiti Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, ladies, and gentlemen, it is a great honor and privilege to be invited to this esteemed gathering to share my thoughts on why lawyers should embrace tourism and the benefits of taking a well-deserved rest or vacation.
As the Director-General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, I have had the opportunity to witness firsthand the transformative power of tourism and the immense value it can bring to individuals, communities, and our beloved profession of law particularly how this act can lubricate and facilitate living long on the face of the Earth.
My esteemed colleagues, I stand before you today to convey a simple yet profound message: tourism is not just a leisure activity, but a vital component of a balanced and fulfilling life.
In our noble pursuit of justice and the upholding of the rule of law, we often find ourselves consumed by the demands of our profession, juggling a multitude of cases, deadlines, and client expectations. While this dedication is admirable, it can also lead to a state of burnout, where our mental and physical well-being are compromised, ultimately affecting our ability to deliver the exceptional service our clients deserve.
This is where the power of tourism comes into play. By embracing the art of travel, exploration, and leisure, we can unlock a world of benefits that extend far beyond the confines of our legal practice.
Firstly, tourism provides us with the opportunity to rejuvenate and recharge. Stepping away from the daily grind of our work allows us to clear our minds, gain a fresh perspective, and return to our practice with renewed vigor and creativity. Imagine the impact this can have on the quality of our legal work, the level of service we provide, and the overall satisfaction of our clients.
Secondly, tourism broadens our horizons and exposes us to diverse cultures, customs, and ways of life. This exposure not only enriches our personal experiences but also enhances our professional capabilities. As lawyers, we are often tasked with navigating complex legal landscapes, and the insights we gain from our travels can inform our decision-making, problem-solving, and ability to connect with clients from various backgrounds.
Thirdly, tourism is a powerful tool for stress management and work-life balance. By taking regular vacations, we can create a healthy separation between our professional and personal lives, allowing us to recharge and rejuvenate. This, in turn, can lead to improved mental health, reduced burnout, and a more sustainable career in the legal field.
My esteemed colleagues, I implore you to embrace the transformative power of tourism and make it an integral part of your professional and personal lives. Embark on adventures, explore the wonders of our state and nation, and immerse yourselves in the rich tapestry of Ekiti's cultural heritage. I can assure you that the rewards will be immeasurable, both for your well-being and the success of your legal practice.
And luckily, Ekiti State is a paragon of tourism as it hosts many exciting sites such as the Ikogosi Warm and Cold Springs, the Arinta Waterfall, I pole Iloro, the Fajuyi Park, the Ogun Grove, the Source of Osun Osogbo, the Palm tree with 42 heads, the Hiking Spots, the Oke Igeti, the home of Ifa, the healing water fountain of the late Apostle Ayo Babalola, the Planetarium at Afe Babalola University, the Abanijorin Rock of Wonders.
Some of these wonderful sites are not only friendly but have been touched up by Governor Biodun Oyebanji.
In closing, let us remember that the pursuit of justice is a noble and demanding calling, but it requires us to care for ourselves as much as we care for our clients. By embracing tourism and prioritizing rest, we can become better versions of ourselves, more effective advocates, and true champions of the law.
In a practical demonstration of this call, the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development is joyfully willing to support the 2024 Law Week of NBA Ado Ekiti Branch with a day at the spectacular, Arinta Waterfall, Ipole Iloro Ekiti on Saturday.
Thank you, and may our 2024 NBA Ado Ekiti Branch be filled with wonder, discovery, and a renewed passion for our beloved profession.
.....being the full ADDRESS BY AMB. WALE OJO-LANRE ESQ., DIRECTOR-GENERAL, EKITI STATE BUREAU OF TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AT THE ADIRE NITE - A PART OF THE 2024 ADO EKITI BRANCH OF THE NIGERIAN BAR ASSOCIATION, NBA, AT THE HIGH COURT COMPLEX, ADO EKITI, EKITI STATE, NIGERIA