By Sharon Emephia
Barrister Sabastine Ubua Anyia marks his 50th birthday today, May 10, 2026, with tributes pouring in for a distinguished career defined by service, leadership, and commitment to justice.
Born on May 10, 1976, in Wula, Boki Local Government Area of Cross River State, Anyia was raised in a disciplined family that placed high value on education. His parents, both teachers, ensured he received quality academic training from an early age.
He began his educational journey at St. John’s Primary School, Wula, before attending Pope John Paul II Junior Seminary in Yala Local Government Area for his secondary education. He later completed his studies at Buentsebe Secondary School, Wula, where his leadership qualities earned him the position of Senior Prefect in 1994.
Driven by a passion for law and public service, Anyia gained admission into the University of Maiduguri in the 1995/1996 academic session to study Law and graduated successfully in 2001.He was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2003 and completed his National Youth Service Corps programme in Anambra State between 2003 and 2004 at H.A Ejim & Co. (Amazing Grace Chambers), where he distinguished himself through hard work and dedication.
Barrister Anyia further advanced his legal education by obtaining a Master’s Degree in Law from Nnamdi Azikiwe University in 2011.Rise in the Legal ProfessionIn 2008, he established his law firm, S.U Anyia & Co, in Anambra State, marking the beginning of a flourishing legal career.
Over the years, he remained actively involved in the activities of the Nigerian Bar Association, serving in several leadership positions within the Aguata branch, including Public Relations Officer, Young Lawyers Chairman, Financial Secretary, Secretary, and eventually Chairman from 2014 to 2016.
His tenure as Chairman of the NBA Aguata Branch was widely regarded as impactful, earning him the additional responsibility of Chairman of Chairmen and Secretaries for the eight NBA branches in Anambra State.
Among his notable achievements during that period were the construction of the Alex Ekwueme Bar Centre, the launch of the Front Line Bar Journal, the promotion of unity among NBA branches through sporting activities, and efforts aimed at eliminating fake lawyers from the legal system.
Historic NBA LeadershipIn 2024, Barrister Anyia made history when he emerged as the First Vice President of the Nigerian Bar Association, becoming the first person from Cross River State to occupy the position.
He also serves as Chairman of the Human Rights Institute of the NBA, where he has championed the protection of legal practitioners and the defence of human rights across the country.His interventions in cases involving harassment, unlawful detention, and maltreatment of lawyers have earned him respect within and outside the legal profession.
Political ContributionsBeyond the legal profession, Barrister Anyia has remained active in politics and governance. He was among the founding members of the All Progressives Congress following the merger that formed the party in 2013.
He contested to represent Boki I State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly under the APC platform in 2019 and again sought the party’s ticket in the 2022 primaries.
Awards and RecognitionHis contributions to society and the legal profession have earned him several recognitions, including the Foot Soldier of Aguata Bar Award in 2012, Leadership Excellence Award in 2016, and the Pillar of Wula Students Award in 2022.
He has also received multiple honours from students’ associations in Cross River and Akwa Ibom states for his mentorship and support for young professionals.As family, friends, colleagues, and associates celebrate the golden jubilee of Barrister Sabastine Anyia, many have described him as a shining example of integrity, resilience, and dedication to public service.
The celebration also serves as recognition of his enduring contributions to the legal profession, human rights advocacy, and national development.Happy 50th birthday to an illustrious son of Boki and a distinguished Cross Riverian.