The Nigerian legal community is buzzing with pride as Benedict Ater etched his name in history by winning a record-breaking 18 awards at the Nigerian Law School (NLS), including the prestigious Council of Legal Education (CLE) Star Prize.
At the recent call to bar ceremony held at the Body of Benchers Complex, Abuja, Ater stood out as the overall best-performing student, earning recognition as one of the most outstanding graduates in the institution’s history.
A graduate of Moses Orshio Adasu University, Makurdi (MOAUM) formerly Benue State University Ater’s remarkable performance highlights years of discipline, resilience, and academic brilliance.
Sweeping 18 awards among his laurels were:
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Council of Legal Education Star Prize
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Overall Best Student Award
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Most Promising Student of the Year
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Best in Professional Ethics and Skills
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Best in Property Law Practice
His extraordinary feat drew admiration from senior lawyers and leaders within the legal profession, who hailed him as a beacon of hope for young Nigerians aspiring to greatness.
Leaders Urge Integrity and Professionalism Speaking at the ceremony, the Director General of the Nigerian Law School, Isa Hayatu Chiroma, SAN, reminded the new wigs that a lawyer’s most valuable asset is their reputation. He urged them to embrace integrity and professionalism in all their dealings.
Also addressing the gathering, the Chairman of the Body of Benchers, Olukayode Olaiwola, encouraged the new barristers to remain humble, fair, and respectful while upholding the noble values of the legal profession.
Reacting to the achievement, Benue State Attorney General, Timothy Yangien, said Ater’s success was no surprise given his academic track record.
“This accomplishment has made Benue State and indeed Nigeria proud. I urge young people to emulate his resilience, brilliance, and determination,” he stated.
Sharing his joy, Ater expressed deep gratitude to God, noting that his academic journey has been marked by consistent excellence.
“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 in Property Law Practice, Best in Professional Ethics and Skills, Most Promising Student of the Year, and the Council of Legal Education Star Prize. I thank God for not letting me down,” he said.
