When thousands of lawyers, judges, academics, business leaders and other professionals arrive in Port Harcourt from August 21 to 28, 2026, for the 66th Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association, Rivers State will have a major opportunity to showcase the Garden City to the world.
With more than 20,000 delegates expected, the conference should be more than a professional gathering. It should demonstrate that Port Harcourt can deliver a safe, clean, organised and memorable experience.
Enugu set a strong example during the 2025 NBA conference, particularly with its transportation arrangements, including more than 50 buses deployed to ease movement for delegates. Rivers should learn from that experience and go a step further.
The Rivers State Government should consider a comprehensive free shuttle system connecting the airport, major hotels, conference venues and key locations across the city. Clear routes, designated shuttle points and trained volunteers would make movement easier for visitors.
Traffic management and security must also receive special attention. With thousands of visitors moving around the city, strategic traffic control and coordinated security involving relevant agencies will be essential.
Sanitation should equally be a priority. Major roads, conference routes and public spaces must be kept clean, with waste disposal, street sweeping and drainage clearing given sustained attention throughout the conference. The Garden City must truly look like a garden.
Rivers should also use the conference to promote its tourism, hospitality and investment potential. Delegates can be encouraged to explore the city, patronise local businesses and discover the cultural and recreational attractions the state has to offer.
The goal should be simple: from the moment delegates arrive at the airport until they leave, they should experience efficient transportation, security, cleanliness and the warmth of Rivers people.
This is not about copying Enugu. It is about learning from what worked and creating an experience that is distinctly Rivers—warmer, safer, cleaner and more memorable.
Enugu has shown what preparation can achieve. Now it is Rivers State’s turn to raise the standard.
When the final delegate leaves Port Harcourt on August 28, the verdict should be clear: Rivers State did not merely host the NBA; it hosted it beyond limits
