President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Mrs. Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, SAN, on her historic election as the first elected and second female President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described her victory as a significant milestone for Nigeria’s legal profession and a testament to merit, excellence, and greater gender inclusion.
Tinubu praised Badejo-Okusanya’s outstanding legal career, noting that her integrity, professionalism, and dedication to justice earned her the trust and support of lawyers across the country.
He said her election reflects the increasing recognition of the vital role women continue to play in strengthening national institutions and advancing the administration of justice.
The President expressed confidence that her leadership would promote the rule of law, support judicial reforms, and improve access to justice for Nigerians.
He also encouraged the incoming NBA President to work closely with relevant stakeholders to advance constitutional governance, strengthen the legal profession, and foster unity within the association.
Tinubu urged her to engage with other contestants in the election to promote reconciliation and address concerns that emerged during the electoral process.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working with the Nigerian Bar Association in promoting democracy, justice, and national development.
Badejo-Okusanya emerged victorious in the NBA presidential election after securing 12,317 votes, representing 47.18 percent of the total votes cast during the electronic election conducted over a 24-hour period.
Her victory makes her the 33rd President of the Nigerian Bar Association and only the second woman to occupy the position since the association was established in 1933.
Also elected was Afam Okeke, who won the position of General Secretary after defeating other contestants.
The newly elected officials will serve a two-year tenure from 2026 to 2028.
