Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, SAN, has been elected the 33rd President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), promising to lead an inclusive Bar focused on strengthening the legal profession and advancing justice and the rule of law.
Badejo-Okusanya, who emerged victorious in the association’s presidential election, expressed gratitude to members for the confidence reposed in her and described her election as the beginning of a new responsibility. In a message shared shortly after her victory, she thanked lawyers across the country for their support and pledged to serve every member of the association with integrity, fairness and accountability.
“Today, I stand before you with a heart filled with profound gratitude and a deep sense of responsibility,” she said.
She added, “I am truly humbled by the confidence that members of the Nigerian Bar Association have reposed in me by electing me to serve as your President.”
Reflecting on her campaign, Badejo-Okusanya said interactions with lawyers across Nigeria helped shape her vision for the association and would continue to influence her leadership.
“Over the past months, I had the privilege of travelling across our nation, engaging with colleagues in every state of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory. I listened to your hopes, your concerns, your aspirations, and your ideas. Those conversations shaped this campaign, and they will continue to guide my leadership.”
The president-elect also called for unity following the conclusion of the election, urging members to work together in advancing the legal profession irrespective of the candidates they supported.
“I extend my sincere appreciation to every member who participated in this election, regardless of the candidate you supported. The election is over. We are one Bar, united by a common commitment to the advancement of our profession and the defence of justice and the rule of law.”
She congratulated her fellow contestants for their participation in the election and expressed readiness to work with them in strengthening the association.
“I congratulate my fellow contestants for their commitment to our Association and for enriching this democratic process. I look forward to working with all of you as partners in building an NBA that reflects the very best of our profession.”
Badejo-Okusanya also acknowledged members of her campaign team, volunteers, supporters, family and mentors for their contributions throughout the electioneering process, reserving special appreciation for her husband for his encouragement and steadfast support.
Badejo-Okusanya said her election marks the beginning of a new responsibility, pledging to lead with integrity, courage, humility, fairness and accountability while working to build an association where every lawyer has the opportunity to “earn better, live better, and practise better.”
