In a recent episode of the Wednesday Center Point AM Show on AKBC Radio and TV, guest speaker Barrister Asukwo Mendie Archibong shared his valuable insights on bridging legal borders. With extensive experience as a lawyer in both the United States and Nigeria, Barrister Archibong offered a unique perspective on the distinctions between legal practice in the two countries.
He began by emphasizing the significance of making meaningful contributions in one’s homeland. “There is no greater achievement than the one you have back home, in your own country or hometown, where people who knew you and saw how you started can celebrate with you,” he stated. According to him, such achievements serve as inspiration for both the young and the old.
Discussing his professional journey, Barrister Archibong highlighted the differences between the legal systems in the US and Nigeria. “If you’re a lawyer going to the United States, you need to be in a state that allows a person to qualify as a lawyer without going through the law school process, unlike in Nigeria,” he explained. He cited New York as an example, where candidates must take and pass the bar exam, undergo a moral character background check, and—if successful—are called to the bar. This process typically takes six months to a year.
In contrast, his Nigerian legal journey began with his application to the Nigerian Law School in August 2022. He was admitted in January 2023 and completed Bar Part I. After receiving his results around November/December 2023, he began Bar Part II in January 2024, completed the final examinations by January 2025, and was called to the bar on 9th July, 2025. Comparing both paths, he remarked that the Nigerian route took approximately three years and was considerably more rigorous.
Barrister Archibong credited his decision to study law to his family background. “My father was in the legal profession as a judge, and both my brother and sister are also lawyers, so it was only natural for me to follow that path,” he said.
When asked about flourishing areas of legal practice in Nigeria, he observed that general practice remains common, but criminal law appears to be seeing notable development.
On the topic of immigration law, he contrasted the US and Nigerian systems. “The US has stricter immigration laws and harsher penalties for non-compliance,” he said. “If you don’t have the legal right to reside, you stand no chance of being employed. And if a company hires you unlawfully, they face serious penalties from the government.”
Reflecting on his transition from a US attorney to a Nigerian attorney, Barrister Archibong shared that he was driven by a desire to contribute to his country’s development. “I always asked myself what I could do to help my country, and becoming a lawyer here was one of the ways I could give back,” he said.
He also addressed challenges facing the Nigerian legal system, such as the absence of audio recordings in court and the need for digital reform. “There should be audio systems that record everything said in court, along with transcribers who provide written records of proceedings,” he recommended.
Regarding legal networking and promotion, Barrister Archibong noted, “Lawyers are not permitted to advertise themselves. The only acceptable way to market one’s services is by opening a law firm, putting up a public notice, or handing out business cards.”
He also touched on ethical considerations, emphasizing transparency in legal fees and clear communication with clients. “Money is a significant ethical concern. Just as healthcare is critical to doctors, finances are a major issue for lawyers—who must also be fairly compensated for their services,” he explained, adding that a lawyer must never touch a client’s money unless it is earned income.
In conclusion, Barrister Archibong encouraged students and aspiring lawyers to be diligent in their studies. He advised those wishing to practice law internationally to consider obtaining an additional degree in a different field. “Having another degree in a different discipline can give you a well-rounded understanding of the law. Best wishes to you,” he said warmly.
