President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Mrs Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, SAN, on her election as the first elected female President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).
Tinubu described her emergence as a landmark achievement in Nigeria’s legal profession and a demonstration of the importance of merit, excellence and gender inclusion.
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Tuesday, July 21, the President said Badejo-Okusanya’s distinguished career, marked by integrity, professionalism and commitment to justice, earned her the confidence of members of the legal profession across the country.
Tinubu said her election “has made history”, noting that it reflects the growing recognition of the contributions of women to nation-building and the administration of justice.
“I extend my hearty congratulations to the President-elect of the NBA for her victory. As the first elected female president of the Association of Lawyers in Nigeria, Mrs Badejo-Okusanya has made history,” the President said.
He added that her emergence demonstrated that Nigerian women could attain the highest levels of achievement in their chosen careers.
“She has once again shown that our women can attain any heights in pursuit of excellence in their careers and ambitions, both in the private sector and in public service,” Tinubu said.
The President expressed confidence that Badejo-Okusanya’s leadership would strengthen the legal profession through the promotion of reforms, protection of the rule of law and improved access to justice for Nigerians.
He urged the new NBA President to work with all stakeholders to advance judicial reforms, safeguard the sanctity of the Constitution and sustain the legal profession’s role as a pillar of democratic governance.
Tinubu also called on her to foster unity within the association following the election.
“I urge you to reach out to the other contestants, unify the bar and make efforts to correct issues that arose during your election,” he said.
The President wished Badejo-Okusanya a successful tenure, assuring her of his administration’s continued commitment to working with the NBA to deepen democratic governance, promote justice and build a more prosperous Nigeria.
