Badejo-Okusanya Promises Stronger, More Inclusive NBA After Historic Election Victory

Badejo-Okusanya Promises Stronger, More Inclusive NBA After Historic Election Victory

Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, the president-elect of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), has described her election as a victory for every legal practitioner committed to building a stronger, more inclusive and responsive association.

In her first statement after emerging victorious in the NBA's national election on Sunday, Badejo-Okusanya thanked members of the association for the confidence reposed in her, saying their overwhelming support represented both an honour and a solemn responsibility.

"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," she said.

According to her, the outcome of the election reflects members' shared desire for an NBA that better serves the interests of all lawyers, regardless of background or practice area.

"This victory is not mine alone; it belongs to every member who believed that our Association can be stronger, more inclusive, more responsive, and better positioned to serve the interests of all lawyers," she said.

Badejo-Okusanya recalled travelling across the country during the campaign, engaging lawyers in every state and the Federal Capital Territory to understand their concerns and expectations.

"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," she added.

Calling for unity after the keenly contested election, the president-elect urged members to move beyond the campaign and work collectively to strengthen the association and uphold the rule of law.

"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 said.

She congratulated her fellow contestants for their participation in the electoral process, expressing optimism about working with them to advance the NBA's objectives.

Badejo-Okusanya also acknowledged the contributions of her campaign team, volunteers, supporters, mentors, friends and family, describing their unwavering support as instrumental to her success.

Looking ahead, she pledged to lead an administration anchored on integrity, fairness, accountability and courage while pursuing reforms aimed at improving the welfare and professional prospects of Nigerian lawyers.

"I pledge to lead with integrity, courage, humility, fairness and accountability. I will be a President for every member of the Nigerian Bar Association.

"Together, we will build an Association where every lawyer has the opportunity to earn better, live better, and practise better. The work begins now," she said.