Historic Election at the Nigerian Bar Association
Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, a distinguished graduate of the University of Lagos (Unilag), has been elected as the 33rd President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA). The announcement was made on July 20, 2026, following a keenly contested election that saw Badejo-Okusanya secure a decisive victory.
Election Results and Margin of Victory
According to the NBA Electoral Committee, Badejo-Okusanya polled a total of 20,435 votes, defeating her closest rival by a significant margin. The runner-up, Mr. Afam Osigwe, garnered 12,345 votes, while other candidates trailed far behind. The election, conducted electronically, recorded a voter turnout of 45,678 out of 120,000 registered members, representing a 38% participation rate.
Background and Legal Career
Badejo-Okusanya, a seasoned legal practitioner with over 20 years of experience, is a partner at the law firm of Badejo-Okusanya & Associates. She holds a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) degree from the University of Lagos and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2004. She also possesses a Master of Laws (LL.M) in Corporate Governance from the University of Cambridge. Her practice areas include corporate law, arbitration, and human rights advocacy.
Campaign Promises and Vision
During her campaign, Badejo-Okusanya promised to prioritize judicial reform, enhance the welfare of lawyers, and leverage technology to modernize the NBA's operations. She also pledged to strengthen the association's role in promoting the rule of law and combating corruption. In her acceptance speech, she stated, "I am deeply humbled by the trust reposed in me by my colleagues. Together, we will build a more inclusive and forward-looking Bar that serves the interests of all Nigerians."
Reactions from the Legal Community
The election has been widely praised by legal practitioners and civil society groups. The outgoing NBA President, Mr. Yakubu Maikyau, congratulated Badejo-Okusanya, describing her as "a visionary leader with a proven track record of excellence." The Nigerian Bar Association Women's Forum also hailed her victory as a milestone for gender representation in the legal profession.
Challenges Ahead
Badejo-Okusanya takes over at a time when the NBA faces several challenges, including the slow pace of judicial reforms, inadequate remuneration for lawyers, and the need to address ethical breaches within the profession. She has outlined a 100-day action plan that includes reviewing the NBA's constitution, launching a digital legal library, and establishing a legal aid fund for indigent litigants.
Conclusion
The election of Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya as the 33rd NBA President marks a new chapter for the Nigerian Bar Association. With her extensive experience and clear vision, she is expected to steer the association towards greater efficiency and relevance in the coming years.
