NBA presidency: Tinubu congratulates Okusanya

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, SAN, on her election as President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).

Badejo-Okusanya polled 12,317 votes to defeat her closest rival, Lateef Akangbe, who scored 7,934 votes.

Tinubu, in a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, described her emergence as a watershed moment in the legal profession and a triumph for merit, excellence and gender inclusion.

President Tinubu, who noted that Mrs Badejo-Okusanya’s remarkable career, distinguished by integrity, professionalism and commitment to justice, had earned her the confidence of her colleagues across the country, further stated that her emergence reflected the growing recognition of women’s invaluable contributions to nation-building and the administration of justice.

He expressed confidence that her leadership would further strengthen the legal profession by upholding the rule of law and promoting reforms that enhance access to justice for all Nigerians.

Tinubu further urged the new NBA President to collaborate with all stakeholders to advance judicial reforms, protect the sanctity of the Constitution and sustain the legal profession’s role as a vital pillar of a democratic society.

President Tinubu assured her of his administration’s continued commitment to working with the Nigerian Bar Association to deepen democratic governance, promote justice and build a more prosperous and united Nigeria.

“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. 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.

“I urge you to reach out to the other contestants, unify the Bar and make efforts to correct issues that arose during your election.

“I wish you a successful tenure and service to the legal profession and our country at large,” the President said.