PRESIDENT Bola Tinubu has congratulated Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, SAN, following her election as the first democratically elected and second female President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).
In a statement released today by his special adviser on information and strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the president described her emergence as a defining moment for Nigeria’s legal profession, saying it reflects merit, excellence, and the growing recognition of women’s contributions to national development.
Tinubu noted that Badejo-Okusanya’s long-standing record of integrity, professionalism, and commitment to justice earned her the confidence of legal practitioners nationwide.
He expressed optimism that her tenure would strengthen the legal profession by advancing judicial reforms, upholding the rule of law, and improving access to justice across the country.
The president also encouraged the NBA president-elect to unite members of the association by engaging with other contestants and addressing concerns that arose during the election process.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working closely with the NBA to deepen democracy, promote justice, and foster national development.
Congratulating Badejo-Okusanya, Tinubu said her achievement demonstrates that Nigerian women can attain the highest levels of professional excellence in both public and private sectors.
He wished her a successful tenure and impactful service to the legal profession and the nation.
Badejo-Okusanya won the NBA presidential election after securing 12,317 votes, representing 47.18 percent of the 26,106 ballots cast in the electronically conducted poll, which ran for 24 hours from Saturday to Sunday.
Her victory makes her the 33rd president of the Nigerian Bar Association and only the second woman to lead the association since its establishment in 1933.
Also elected was Afam Okeke, who emerged as the NBA’s general secretary after defeating his challengers with 8,478 votes.
The newly elected NBA executives will serve a two-year term from 2026 to 2028.
