Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, a distinguished legal figure in Nigeria, has made history by becoming the 33rd President-elect of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA). Her election marks a significant milestone, as she is only the second woman to lead the association in its 66-year history, following Priscilla Kuye's tenure. This achievement is a testament to her dedication, expertise, and impact in the legal field.
Badejo-Okusanya's journey began with a passion for academics and advocacy. She earned a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in English from the University of Lagos and later pursued a degree in Law at the same institution. Her legal career started at the prestigious Olaniwun Ajayi LP, where she honed her skills in litigation and commercial law. However, her career took a pivotal turn when she was appointed as Senior Special Assistant on Justice Sector Reform to Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola in 2007.
This appointment allowed her to contribute to justice sector reforms in Lagos State, working closely with the then Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Olasupo Shasore. Her expertise and dedication led to her becoming a founding partner of Africa Law Practice NG & Company (ALP NG & Co.) in 2017, where she currently serves as Co-Head of the Litigation and Dispute Resolution Practice. The firm has since grown into one of Nigeria's leading commercial law firms with a strong presence across Africa.
Badejo-Okusanya's contributions to the NBA are equally impressive. She has held various positions within the association, including Assistant Secretary of the NBA Lagos Branch, Delegate to the 2006 NBA elections, and member of several national committees. Her leadership skills were further showcased as Alternate Chair of the 2023 NBA Annual General Conference Planning Committee and Chair of the 2024 conference committee. Her dedication and service were recognized with co-option into the NBA National Executive Council in 2022 and the NBA Presidential Medal of Service in August 2024.
Beyond her legal practice, Badejo-Okusanya is an accomplished arbitration practitioner. She is a member of several respected international organizations, including the London Court of International Arbitration (LCIA), the International Council for Commercial Arbitration (ICCA), and the International Bar Association (IBA). Her expertise in arbitration is further evidenced by her memberships in the Commonwealth Lawyers Association (CLA), the African Arbitration Association, ArbitralWomen, the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), and the African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA), where she is a life member. She also serves on the Board of the Lagos Court of Arbitration (LCA).
With her election as NBA President, Badejo-Okusanya is poised to make a significant impact on the legal profession in Nigeria. Her leadership and expertise will shape the future direction of the NBA, a professional association that represents the largest number of lawyers in the country. Her achievement is a testament to the importance of gender representation in the legal field and inspires future generations of women in the profession.
In my opinion, Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya's election as NBA President is a momentous occasion. It highlights the importance of diversity and excellence in the legal profession. Her journey from a passionate academic to a distinguished legal practitioner serves as an inspiration to many. As she takes on this new role, I am confident that her leadership will bring about positive change and further enhance the NBA's reputation as a leading professional association in Nigeria.
