A delegation representing Prime Minister Chief Dr. Joseph Dion Ngute has praised veteran lawyer and human rights advocate, Sir Dr. Bar. Nico Halle, describing him as a nation builder. The delegation made the remarks during a visit to the Nico Halle Award Gallery in Douala on Wednesday, July 15, 2026.
The delegation was led by His Royal Highness Chief Agbor Ambang.
Opened in 2025, the Nico Halle Award Gallery displays more than 210 local, national and international awards, medals and trophies. The awards recognize Nico Halle's contributions to the legal profession, human rights, civil society and public service over several decades.
Speaking on behalf of the Prime Minister, Chief Agbor Ambang described Nico Halle as a strong defender of human rights, justice, national unity and democratic values.
He said the veteran lawyer has spent many years promoting peace and working for a united Cameroon. According to him, Nico Halle's dedication has earned him respect and recognition both in Cameroon and internationally.
"We are here to celebrate his contribution to our country and to encourage Cameroonians to follow his example," Chief Agbor Ambang said.
Responding to the visit, Sir Dr. Barr. Nico Halle thanked the Prime Minister for sending what he described as a strong delegation. He said the visit was an honour not only for him but also for the ideals represented by the award gallery.
He used the occasion to once again call for what he described as the "rule of love." According to him, lasting peace can only exist where there is justice, transparency, accountability, integrity and respect for human dignity.
Nico Halle also spoke about the great thinkers who influenced his life. He said philosophers such as Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Jean-Jacques Rousseau and Voltaire inspired his commitment to justice, democracy and the rule of law. He warned against celebrating leaders like Adolf Hitler, saying history has shown the destruction and suffering caused by war.
The senior lawyer also expressed concern over corruption, election fraud and poor leadership. He said practices such as bribery, vote buying and election rigging weaken democracy because they allow unqualified people to assume leadership positions.
He further criticised the use of "motions of support" to cover up corruption, insisting that public praise should never be used to hide embezzlement, bribery or abuse of office.
Nico Halle linked unemployment, poverty and slow development to corruption and poor governance. He called on Africans to reject tribalism, nepotism, hate speech, xenophobia and all forms of discrimination that divide people and slow development.
He also questioned the effectiveness of regional and international organisations in resolving conflicts, saying institutions created to promote peace should do more to end violence in Cameroon, Africa and other parts of the world.
The veteran lawyer encouraged Cameroonians to develop a reading culture and embrace lifelong learning. He said educated and informed citizens are better placed to defend democracy, promote development and build peaceful societies.
Before the end of the visit, Nico Halle thanked the Prime Minister, the visiting delegation and everyone who attended the event. He also warned against hypocrisy, blind praise and dishonesty, describing them as major obstacles to good governance and national progress.
The visit ended with the Prime Minister's delegation reaffirming its appreciation for Nico Halle's many years of service to Cameroon and encouraging citizens to uphold the values of patriotism, justice, peace and national unity that have guided his public life.
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