The Faculty of Law at the University of Lagos has entered a new chapter with the appointment of Professor Adejoke Oyewunmi as its new Dean, following the completion of Professor Abiola Sanni’s tenure.
Professor Oyewunmi officially assumed office on August 1, 2026, becoming the Faculty’s 20th Dean and only the third woman to hold the position since its establishment, after Professors C. K. Agomo and Ayodele Atsenuwa.
A respected academic and administrator, Professor Oyewunmi earned her Bachelor of Laws degree from Obafemi Awolowo University before obtaining her postgraduate qualifications at the University of Lagos, where she has spent more than 30 years teaching and conducting research.
She is recognised as one of Nigeria’s leading authorities in Intellectual Property and Labour Law. Her academic credentials also include a Master of Laws in Intellectual Property from the Franklin Pierce Law Center, University of New Hampshire, United States, and a Ph.D. from Obafemi Awolowo University.
Professor Oyewunmi takes over from Professor Abiola Sanni, SAN, whose two-year tenure is widely credited with driving significant reforms and development within the Faculty.
During his administration, the Faculty expanded its international partnerships, including the launch of the UNILAG–University of Dundee Dual LL.M. Programme and the introduction of the Women in Legal Academia (WiLAC) Project.
The Faculty also recorded impressive academic achievements. In 2026, two UNILAG students won the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Intellectual Property Moot Court Competition, defeating teams from 214 law schools around the world. The winning team was coached by Professor Oyewunmi alongside other lecturers in the Faculty’s Intellectual Property unit.
The Faculty also maintained strong performances at the Nigerian Law School, producing 43 First Class graduates in 2025 and 34 in 2026, while continuing to excel in national and international advocacy competitions.
Professor Sanni’s tenure also saw major improvements in infrastructure. Through fundraising and support from alumni and partners, the Faculty renovated key facilities, strengthened its digital and alternative energy infrastructure, and began projects such as the installation of an elevator, redevelopment of the Faculty Library, and plans for a new Faculty building.
Another major achievement was the revival of alumni engagement. His administration facilitated the adoption of a constitution for the proposed Faculty of Law Alumni Association, inaugurated its General Assembly, and initiated plans for a dedicated Alumni Relations and Advancement Office.
With Professor Oyewunmi now at the helm, the Faculty hopes to build on these achievements by strengthening legal education, expanding research, encouraging innovation, deepening international collaboration, and enhancing its contribution to society.
