Prof. Yusuf Ali SAN, to Lead National Security Dialogue at Gavel International Annual Lecture
Eminent legal scholar, Professor Yusuf Olaolu Ali, SAN, is set to lead prominent Nigerians in a national dialogue on security at the Gavel International Annual Lecture and Awards, scheduled for Tuesday, November 11, 2025.
The event, themed “The Impact of National Security Policies on Vulnerable Populations: A Human Rights Perspective,” comes amid renewed global attention on Nigeria’s internal security, following allegations by the United States of religiously motivated attacks against Christians in the country.
Organised by Gavel International, an online law and human rights publication founded by veteran journalist Mustapha Ogunsakin, the lecture will hold at the OPTS Hall, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Alausa, Ikeja. The gathering will feature top legal minds, senior media professionals, and retired security officials, who will brainstorm on solutions to Nigeria’s mounting security and human rights challenges.
The lecture will be chaired by the respected legal icon, Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, while discussants will include Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy; Dr. Kayode Ajulo, SAN, Ondo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice; Major General James Ataguba (rtd); and AIG Tunde Ogunsakin (rtd).
Also joining the conversation is agricultural journalist Dr. Olukayode Oyeleye, who will examine the intersection between food security and national stability.
As part of the event, Gavel International will present Lifetime Achievement Awards to distinguished Nigerians who have made remarkable contributions in law, media, and business. Honorees include former Vice President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, SAN; Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN; Dr. Attia Nasreddin; Mr. Gbenga Oyebode, MFR; Dr. Oludare Bello; Mr. Richard Akinnola; and Mr. Lere Fashola.
Speaking ahead of the lecture, publisher Mustapha Ogunsakin emphasized that the forum aims to promote citizen participation in national security efforts.
“The constitutional mandate for safety and security is non-negotiable,” he said. “Every Nigerian deserves to live free from fear—whether from kidnappings, insurgency, or politically motivated violence. This lecture seeks to identify practical steps toward ending these threats.”
Since its inception in 2015, Gavel International’s Annual Lecture Series has become a platform for policy dialogue on justice and governance. Its maiden edition featured the presentation of Ogunsakin’s book “For the Love of Their Nation: Lawyers as Agents of Change in Nigeria,” with then-Vice President Prof. Osinbajo, SAN, as special guest.
In 2020, despite COVID-19 restrictions, the lecture focused on “Virtual Court Proceedings: Challenges and Prospects,” featuring Bode Olanipekun, SAN; Femi Falana, SAN; and Prof. Chidi Odinkalu, among others. Last year’s edition saw Attorney General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, deliver the keynote address, with Mr. Dele Adesina, SAN, as lead speaker, and Mr. Gbenga Oyebode, MFR, chairing the session.
This year’s lecture promises to deepen national discourse on the intersection of security, human rights, and governance, offering practical insights toward safeguarding Nigeria’s unity, stability, and peace.
