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Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, on Tuesday, stressed the need for discipline, precision and sound legal reasoning in appellate advocacy, describing appellate practice as a critical pillar for strengthening Nigeria’s justice system.

Wike stated this at the public presentation of the book, “Ukala’s Manual on Appellate Practice,” authored by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Emmanuel C. Ukala, held at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Abuja.

The former Rivers State governor described the publication as a timely and significant contribution to the legal profession, particularly for young lawyers seeking to develop competence in appellate litigation.

According to him, advocacy at the appellate level differs fundamentally from trial proceedings and requires a higher level of intellectual discipline and mastery of legal procedures.

“We are all aware that advocacy at the appellate level is of a fundamentally different character from proceedings at trial. It calls for a higher degree of discipline, clarity of thought, precision in expression, and a deep, assured command of both substantive law and procedural rules,” Wike said.

He noted that the manual would serve as a practical guide for lawyers and judges by bridging the gap between legal theory and courtroom practice.

“It serves as a vital bridge between legal theory and courtroom practice, offering guidance that is especially beneficial to younger members of the Bar as they develop the confidence and competence required to navigate the demands of appellate litigation,” he added.

Wike, who recalled his background in legal practice, said he personally appreciated the value of appellate adjudication, having prosecuted and defended several cases before appellate courts over the years.

“I myself am a direct beneficiary of the work done at the appellate level, having had the privilege, as a party in numerous disputes, to prosecute and defend many cases before appellate courts,” he stated.

The minister also revealed that he once worked briefly in Ukala’s law firm, noting that the experience shaped his professional values and appreciation for excellence in legal advocacy.

“I cut my teeth in the firm of Mr. Ukala, SAN, albeit for a relatively short time. The exposure and values I imbibed during that period discipline, attention to detail, respect for the craft of advocacy, and an unwavering commitment to excellence have continued to shape my professional outlook to this day,” he said.

Wike described the publication as a “legacy work” that would remain relevant to legal practitioners and judicial officers for years to come.

According to him, the book does not merely seek to impress readers academically but provides practical guidance on critical aspects of appellate litigation, including notices of appeal, compilation of records, interlocutory applications, briefs of argument, and oral advocacy.

“What I particularly appreciate about this manual is its practicality. It does not attempt to impress; it seeks to guide. It brings clarity to areas that many practitioners struggle with but rarely admit,” he said.

The FCT minister urged young lawyers to make effective use of the book in refining their professional skills and pursuit of excellence.

“To my colleagues, especially the younger lawyers, do not just celebrate this book, use it. Let it challenge you. Let it refine you. Let it remind you that excellence in this profession is a deliberate pursuit,” he added.

The event was attended by high-ranking judicial officers, including the President, National Industrial Court, Hon. Justice Benedict Bakwaph Kanyip, other heads of court, former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Kanu Agabi, Justices of the Supreme Court, Justices of the Court of Appeal, Senior Advocates of Nigeria, members of the Body of Benchers, legal practitioners and other dignitaries from across the country, while Joseph B. Daudu (SAN) and Ferdinand O. Orbih (SAN), reviewed the book.