By Stephen Simon
In a farewell address marking the end of his tenure, the outgoing President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) officially handed over leadership to the new National Executive Committee, highlighting a strengthened institutional legacy and an asset portfolio exceeding ₦4 billion.
Passing the baton to his successor, Mrs. Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, SAN, the former legal leader reflected on a two-year term defined by financial stability, institutional growth, and a steadfast commitment to the legal profession.
“Two years ago, I accepted the responsibility of leading our great Association with a clear understanding that the office of President is temporary, but the Nigerian Bar Association is permanent,” he declared during the handover ceremony.
A ₦4 Billion Financial Fortress
Beyond structural reforms, the administration emphasized the Association’s financial resilience as a cornerstone of its tenure.
“I leave with the satisfaction that we gave this assignment our very best and that we have strengthened the institutional and financial foundation of the Association, including building over ₦4 billion in investments for the future of the Bar.”
The outgoing president expressed gratitude to lawyers nationwide, past leaders, and executive colleagues for holding the administration accountable and driving progress behind the scenes.
Addressing the newly sworn-in NBA President, Mrs. Badejo-Okusanya, SAN, and the incoming team, the former chief urged the executive to preserve the Bar’s fierce independence.
“The Bar is now in your hands,” he urged, calling on practitioners across the country to rally behind the incoming leadership. “The NBA cannot be built by one President or one administration. The Bar belongs to all of us, and its future is our collective responsibility.”
Reaffirming his commitment as a “grateful servant of the Bar,” he concluded: “The office may change hands. The service continues. The Bar endures.”
