President-elect of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, SAN, has promised to build a more inclusive, responsive and stronger Bar that works for all lawyers.
Badejo- Okusanya stated this while expressing gratitude to the members of the Association for electing her as the President.
In a statement following her election, Badejo-Okusanya said she was humbled by the confidence reposed in her by members of the association and described her victory as a collective achievement for all lawyers who believed in her vision of “A Bolder Bar That Works for Everyone.”
She said the outcome of the election reflected the shared aspiration of members for an NBA that is stronger, more inclusive and better positioned to serve the interests of legal practitioners across the country.
The president-elect recalled travelling across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory during the campaign, where she engaged lawyers on their concerns, aspirations and ideas for the future of the association.
According to her, the interactions with members would continue to guide her leadership as she assumes office.
Badejo-Okusanya also appreciated all members who participated in the election, irrespective of the candidates they supported, stressing that the contest was over and that it was time for unity.
“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.
She congratulated the other contestants for contributing to a credible democratic process and expressed her readiness to work with them in advancing the goals of the association.
The president-elect also thanked the BBOLD Campaign Council, volunteers, coordinators, supporters, colleagues and friends for their commitment and sacrifices throughout the campaign.
She paid a special tribute to her husband for his unwavering support, encouragement and sacrifices, as well as to her family, mentors and friends for standing by her with prayers and goodwill.
Badejo-Okusanya pledged to lead the association with integrity, courage, humility, fairness and accountability, assuring members that her administration would prioritise the welfare and professional development of all lawyers.
“I will be a President for every member of the Nigerian Bar Association. Together, we will build an Association where every lawyer has the opportunity to earn better, live better and practise better,” she said.
She described her election as the beginning of a new responsibility and reaffirmed her commitment to strengthening the NBA while advancing justice, the rule of law and the interests of legal practitioners nationwide.