Department of Commercial & Property Law

Department of Commercial and Property Law

Established in 2005, the Department of Commercial and Property Law has stood as a cornerstone of academic and professional excellence within the Faculty of Law. Since its inception, the department has remained steadfast in its commitment to advancing legal education in Nigeria through high-quality teaching, pioneering research, and impactful community engagement.

As one of the foundational departments of the Faculty of Law, it continues to evolve, shaping future legal professionals capable of navigating both local and global legal systems.

Historical Overview and Leadership Legacy

The Department of Commercial and Property Law has achieved numerous milestones over the years, most notably repeated accreditations by the National Universities Commission (NUC). These affirm the department's adherence to academic excellence and regulatory standards in legal education.

The department's success is built on a legacy of strong leadership. Previous Heads of Department who have played crucial roles in its development include:

• Prof. T.C. Eze
• Prof. E.Q. Okolie
• Prof. C.I.N. Emelie
• Dr. C.C. Ojimba

These academic leaders have laid the groundwork for a vibrant and forward-thinking legal department. Notably, Prof. C.I.N. Emelie has served the department in various leadership capacities, leaving a lasting imprint on its direction and growth.

Mission and Philosophy

The mission of the Commercial and Property Law Department is centered on the advancement of legal knowledge through education, research, and practice-oriented training. The department is committed to producing lawyers who are intellectually equipped and ethically grounded.

Its guiding philosophy emphasizes legal education throughout, reflecting a belief in lifelong learning, critical thinking, and the importance of law in achieving societal progress and justice.

Academic Programmes

The department offers a wide range of academic programmes, ensuring robust and comprehensive training for students at different levels:

These programmes are tailored to provide students with a strong foundation in Commercial and Property Law, as well as specialized legal knowledge that aligns with national and international developments.

Admission Requirements and Procedures

The department admits a maximum of 100 students annually, ensuring small class sizes that foster personalized academic mentorship.

Undergraduate Admissions:

• Minimum JAMB score: 230
• O' Level subjects: English, Literature, and Government

Postgraduate Admissions:

• Minimum CGPA: 2.50

Admission Deferment and Transfer:

• Students may defer admission with approval from the Vice Chancellor.
• Students from Social Sciences and Arts backgrounds are eligible to transfer into the Law programme, offering a flexible pathway into legal education.

Conferences, Research, and Publications

The department places a strong emphasis on research and scholarly engagement. Academic staff actively participate in conferences and contribute to national and international publications. Some notable journals include:

• Law Journal Vol. 3 No. 1
• Private & Public Law Journal Vol. 2 No. 1

The department also maintains softcopy conference proceedings, serving as academic resources and references for students and researchers.

Distinguished Academic Personnel

The department is home to a diverse team of highly qualified and dedicated academic staff, who are committed to delivering quality education and mentoring the next generation of legal experts.

Each member of staff brings a unique academic perspective and research strength, enriching the learning environment and contributing to the department's robust curriculum.

Achievements and Future Aspirations

The Commercial and Property Law Department has made significant strides in legal education. Notable achievements include:

• Multiple accreditations by the NUC
• Production of over thirteen professors
• Mentorship of a large number of students who have gone on to become dignitaries in both public and private sectors

Looking to the future, the department is focused on positioning itself among the top law schools globally. It aims to expand its research initiatives, strengthen international collaborations, and continue producing world-class legal professionals.