By ABUBAKAR Ojima-Ojo
Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, president-elect of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), says her victory in the association’s national election is a collective triumph for lawyers committed to building a more inclusive and responsive bar.
In a statement issued after her election on Sunday, Badejo-Okusanya thanked NBA members for entrusting her with the leadership of the association, describing their support as both humbling and a call to service.
“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,” the statement reads.
She said her election reflected members’ belief in a “shared vision of a bolder bar that works for everyone”.
“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 added.
“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 NBA president-elect also called on members of the association to put the contest behind them and work together to advance the legal profession.
“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.
Badejo-Okusanya congratulated her fellow contestants for participating in the election, adding that said she looked forward to working with them to strengthen the association.
She also expressed appreciation to members of her campaign team, volunteers, supporters, mentors, friends and family for standing by her throughout the race.
Looking ahead to her tenure, the president-elect pledged to lead with integrity, fairness and accountability.
“I pledge to lead with integrity, courage, humility, fairness, and accountability. I will be a President for every member of the Nigerian Bar Association,” she said.
“Together, we will build an Association where every lawyer has the opportunity to earn better, live better, and practise better. The work begins now.”
