Legal luminary, ‘Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, has urged the newly elected President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mrs. Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, SAN, to prioritize organizational unity as she takes over helm of affairs of the Africa’s largest legal body.
In his congratulatory statement, Pinheiro commended the President-elect’s proven excellence, inclusiveness, and courage.
In the statement, Pinheiro noted that there are factions in the association, emphasising that internal unity is more than just an organizational goal, it is a national necessity. He argued that a fractured NBA cannot effectively fulfill its public duty, noting that a unified Bar is vital to protect the rule of law, advance the welfare of lawyers, and serve as a strong voice for justice and good governance across Nigeria.
It read: “The Bar is currently polarised along several lines; generational, ideological, and sometimes personal,” Pinheiro stated. “Healing these divisions and building a truly cohesive, inclusive, and purpose-driven Bar must be at the heart of your agenda.”
Badejo-Okusanya’s election marks a major institutional milestone. While Dame Priscilla Kuye served as NBA president in 1991, she did so by stepping up from the vice presidency following a resignation.
Badejo-Okusanya’s victory is the first time the general electorate of the Bar has voted a woman into the top seat.
Pledging his full backing to the incoming administration, Pinheiro concluded by offering his complete support to help realize a bolder, more united, and more effective Nigerian Bar Association.
