Attorney Asukwo Mendie Archibong has shared his remarkable journey of transforming a U.S. law degree into full recognition as a practicing lawyer in Nigeria, shedding light on the unique challenges faced by diaspora legal professionals. Trained in the United States, Archibong completed law school and successfully passed the American Bar examination, earning the right to practice in U.S. courts. Yet, despite these achievements, returning home to Nigeria meant starting another demanding process — one that required navigating the intricate requirements of the Nigerian legal system.
Archibong explained that while his U.S. education had provided him with a solid foundation in jurisprudence, it did not automatically grant him eligibility to practice in Nigeria. To be called to the Nigerian Bar, foreign-trained lawyers must satisfy the Council of Legal Education’s regulations, which include enrolling in the Nigerian Law School and completing the compulsory Bar Part II program. This meant that Archibong, despite his credentials, had to take additional courses, write fresh examinations, and adapt his knowledge to Nigerian legal principles and statutes.
One of the major hurdles, he revealed, was undertaking the “conversion” process — a bridging program designed for foreign-trained lawyers. This preliminary step introduced him to the Nigerian Constitution, legal procedures, and indigenous case law, ensuring that his practice would be grounded in the nation’s legal realities. For Archibong, the program required late nights of study, rigorous assessments, and a shift in mindset from the U.S. legal framework to Nigeria’s unique system.
Beyond academics, Archibong highlighted the importance of perseverance and mentorship. He credited senior lawyers who guided him through the complexities of the process and encouraged him to remain focused despite setbacks. The experience, he noted, demanded resilience, discipline, and humility — qualities necessary to thrive in Nigeria’s legal landscape.
After successfully completing the Bar Part II program and passing all required examinations, Archibong was finally called to the Nigerian Bar by the Body of Benchers. For him, the moment represented more than just personal victory; it was proof that foreign-trained lawyers can merge international experience with Nigerian legal practice, enriching the profession with diverse perspectives.
Reflecting on his journey, Archibong encouraged other Nigerians in the diaspora who aspire to practice law back home to remain undeterred by the challenges. He emphasized that the process, while demanding, is rewarding and achievable with determination and preparation. His story now serves as both a guide and an inspiration for young lawyers who wish to bridge the gap between international training and local legal practice.
Archibong’s achievement illustrates how global experience can be harmonized with domestic expertise, offering hope for a new generation of lawyers committed to strengthening Nigeria’s legal system while carrying the influence of global standards.
