My Goal Is To Position Our Properties As Category Leaders – Ada Matthews

Ada Matthews leads the sales and marketing vision for Glocient Hospitality Ltd, a dynamic hospitality management firm currently overseeing several properties including the iconic Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort & Conference Centre in Ekiti State. She is an excellent and dedicated hospitality professional with a proven track record of delivering results and facilitating change on a large scale.

An intelligent woman with an appetite for new challenges, Matthews has over two decades of industry experience which is rooted in a strong academic foundation from Houston Community College and Ashesi University in Ghana. Even her career journey took off in the country as she worked with the renowned Destination Management Company, LandTours Ghana Ltd and Avis Ghana, rising to the position of Corporate Marketing Manager for the Group. It is worthy of note that she also served on the Ghana Tourist Board’s Planning Committee, contributing to the country’s representation at global events such as the World Travel Market. Needless saying, this further sharpened her understanding of international tourism marketing and destination branding.

Upon returning to Nigeria, she joined the sales team for the opening of the Intercontinental Hotel, Lagos, contributing to the hotel’s market entry strategy and sales positioning. This was followed by her role as a member of the pre – opening executive team for Renaissance Hotel, Ikeja, now operating as the Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja where she led initiatives to drive corporate and group sales during its critical brand transition.

Now in Glocient Hospitality as the Director of Sales and Marketing, Matthews has been part of the executive team that has transformed Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort and Conference Center into a premier leisure and MICE destination, complete with upgraded facilities and a reimagined guest experience. This success has earned the resort national recognition as the Best Resort in Nigeria at the Hotel Managers Conference Awards back – to – back in 2023 and 2024. This feat certainly speaks volumes – it is a testament to the commitment to excellence and innovation in the hospitality sector in Nigeria by Glocient Hospitality.

Matthews who was honoured with the Pyne Awards Sales and Marketing Manager of the Year in 2021 says she has drawn inspiration from trailblazing women in hospitality leadership as their achievements have continued to motivate her to perform. Apart from this, she emphasized that her career success has also been influenced by the people she had been fortunate to work with across properties like the Intercontinental Hotel Lagos, Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja and now Glocient Hospitality, as each has influenced her through shared knowledge, collaboration, and high – performance standards.

On the challenges she has encountered in her career journey, she has this to say: “Navigating leadership as a woman in hospitality has come with unique challenges ranging from gender bias and underestimation to managing work – life balance and limited access to mentorship in earlier years. I’ve overcome these by building and leaning into strong professional networks; staying adaptable and resilient; focusing on results and consistently demonstrating value through performance, while also committing to mentoring other women, thereby reinforcing a culture of inclusion and support within the industry”

Her overarching goal now is to position Glocient Hospitality’s properties as category leaders within their respective markets. Said she: “Specifically, we are focused on sustained occupancy and revenue growth, expanding our local and international customer base, driving digital transformation in marketing and customer engagement, deepening brand loyalty through exceptional guest experiences and cultivating a team culture that embraces innovation, agility and excellence”

And to every woman pursuing a professional path, she counselled them to believe in their vision and have confidence, embrace continuous learning, and seek out mentors. In addition, she urged them to be resilient and not allow setbacks disturb them just as they should surround themselves with people who challenge them even as it is necessary that they find harmony between their professional and personal life.

Oluwatosin Alfred – Kemepado : The Female QHSE Expert Coordinating Zero Lost Time Injury At Aviam Offshore Engineering

Dr Oluwatosin Alfred – Kemepado is a seasoned Quality, Health, Safety and Environment, QHSE, specialist with over 19 years experience in the oil and gas drilling sector. She possesses an excellent reputation as a highly dependable expert which is hinged on her vast experience in management, excellent analytical skills and strong interpersonal strategic skills.

She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Protection and Resource Management, a Master’s and a Ph.D in Occupational Health and Safety Management from Tribune Biblical University, New York. She is also a certified Incident and Accident Investigation expert and a professional member of the Institute of Safety Professionals of Nigeria; International Safety Quality Environment Management Association, a member of the American Society of Safety Professionals and a fellow of the Environmental Safety Management Institute.

Kemepado commenced her career in the oil and gas industry in 2006 starting at Global Offshore as the Health, Safety and Environment Administrator for the West Africa Business unit before joining Pacific International Drilling West Africa Ltd in 2012 as the QHSE Specialist. Today, she is the Head of QHSE for Aviam Offshore Engineering, the firm she joined in 2018. In this position, she is responsible for coordinating the QHSE team to consistently maintain a low Zero Lost Time Injury. She also ensures that the entire Aviam workforce and service partners in all their facilities, both onshore and offshore, comply with the company’s QHSE policies, and standards. She equally conducts periodic management offshore QHSE inspections and audits, reviews all HSE reports, meets clients’ requirements on all HSE expectations, vendor evaluations, pre – qualification, whilst also supervising QHSE trainings and presentations.

On an experience that stands out in her memory, she recalled: “At the early stage of my career, I had the opportunity to work on a project offshore, Banzala Lago project outside Nigeria with different nationalities. I was the only female on board amidst over 150 male professionals on that project. It was intriguing to be found in that situation, and I enjoyed the gents’ attention and willingness to share experience and bring me up to speed with the guidelines and expectations of the project, as well as my career advancement”

Her only regret is that in the 19 years of her career as a safety professional, she has never had a female in her department or team. “I would have loved to have a female on my team as an additional feminine energy in the room would further enhance my competence, achieve some gender balance, and inspire a more inclusive working environment”, she stated.

Our Vision Is To Enter The International Market To Offer Our Tailor – Made Legal Services– Agatha McMadu/strong>

Hers is a story of resilience and can-do spirit. Life threw her lemons and she made lemonade from it. When she could not secure employment in any law firm or legal setting, she decided to summon courage by setting up her own law firm. Today, it is heartening that she has success stories to tell by taking the bull by the horns.

Agatha Mcmadu, the founder of Agatha’s Legal’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary and could serve as a source of inspiration to the many who are struggling to secure a job but to no avail. After graduating from Law School, she did her pupillage as a judicial assistant at the Lagos State Judiciary, but after her maternity leave, she discovered that her employer at the Chieftaincy Tribunal had travelled out and with no definite date of return. She was thus left in the lurch and tried securing another job in any law firm or legal setting with no success. This was the point where she began to think of what solutions she could offer and what problems she could address for people using her professional skills.

The Madonna University law graduate reveals: “I turned my attention to social media and noticed that due to the high level of unemployment in Nigeria, many young people were becoming business owners, entrepreneurs, and traders without proper guidance. I decided to reach out to them on the importance of having a lawyer, the problems lawyers can solve in business, and the benefits of legal counsel. After every engagement with these young entrepreneurs, they began to seek my legal advice regularly, and I handled their cases effectively. This resulted in numerous referrals. Today, we are proud to have database of over two thousand entrepreneurs at Agatha Legal.”

As a corporate commercial lawyer, Agatha is proud of what this area of law practice has made her achieve with businesses. She has provided comprehensive business formation services that involved guiding clients through the complexities of choosing the right business structure, filing necessary documentation and ensuring compliance with local and federal regulations.

Reflecting on her journey, Agatha is filled with gratitude to the Almighty for how she started and how far she has come. According to her, her law firm started in her sitting room and she earned her first million there, but since then, she has expanded into a more suitable workspace that accommodates a full – spectrum law firm. Said she: “Transitioning from a sole practitioner to becoming an employer has been a significant achievement for me. Every challenge I faced has contributed to my growth, making me a resilient and strong-willed visionary who is passionate about innovating legal services”

Needless saying, her firm has received numerous awards that highlight its unwavering commitment to excellence in legal services, its dedication to serving humanity as well as its impactful contributions to the community. She believes their journey is just starting as they aim to enter international markets.

Understanding That My Team And I Are Surpassing Set Targets Brings Me Great Joy—Engr Oluwabunmi Etty-Mfon

She is not just an engineer, she is a practicing one, a career engineer. And for a truth, practicing in a traditionally male-dominated field was really challenging for her at the early stages of her career. There was skepticism from male counterparts, and disapproval from some women who questioned her passion for the career. But Engr Oluwabunmi Esther Etty-Mfon, nee Awobajo, who from youth had always loved to handle tools such as screwdrivers and spanners was undaunted as she was determined to follow her dreams. Today, she is the first female Plant Manager for both the Agbara and Sagamu plants of Nestle Nigeria, that multinational company producing a wide range of products including Maggi, Milo, Nescafe, Golden Morn, Cerelac and others that are today popular in the Nigerian market.

Can we have an insight into your background and profile?
My name is Engr. Mrs. Oluwabunmi Esther Etty-Mfon, nee Awobajo. I am a native of Ogun State, from Ijebu North-East LGA, and I am the first child in a family of five. As an engineer by profession, I am registered with COREN and NSE. I was raised in a humble background, with my father, the late Pa Awobajo working as a retired clerk with the Nigerian Ports Authority, and my mother, Mrs. J.O. Awobajo, a retired head of school with the Lagos State government.
I completed my elementary and secondary education in Lagos at Lagos Anglican Girls Primary and Grammar School, Surulere. I then pursued my first degree in Agricultural Engineering (with a specialization in Machinery) from the University of Agriculture, Makurdi, followed by a second degree in Mechanical Engineering (Design and Production Technology) from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. I am married with children and also serve as a minister of the gospel with RCCG.
Growing up, I was fortunate to receive a solid education and support as a “girl child.” One of my fondest childhood memories includes climbing trees, wrestling, and catching the early morning “molue” to school until my father bought his first car—a Volkswagen, popularly known as the “beetle.”

You are an engineer; what informed your decision to study engineering, a male-dominated profession?
When I was choosing a career path, I had two options in mind: to become a doctor or a mechanic. At that young age, I was not concerned about the gender dynamics of these professions; my passion for treating wounds and my fascination with dismantling items like pressing irons and radios drove my decision. I enjoyed handling tools such as screwdrivers and spanners, and I was inspired by the sights and sounds of Nigeria, including the oil rigs featured on NTA broadcasts. I never saw engineering as something I couldn’t pursue, especially as a tomboy.

Can you take us through your career trajectory?
My career spans nearly three decades. After an impactful industrial training year where I worked with heavy equipment and machinery, I began my journey in a consultancy firm in Enugu in 1995. There, I contributed to designing an irrigation plan aimed at improving the lives of rural women in Anambra. In 1999, I participated in a management trainee program at Nigerian Foundries Limited, gaining exposure to foundry practices, machine shop practices, including milling, drilling, turning and shaping, patterning and drawing as well as maintenance and projects.
In 2001, I joined Unilever Nigeria Plc as the first female maintenance engineer for the Personal Care Plant (Close-up toothpaste and Pears Baby Product). I was honored to be featured in an internal publication highlighting my achievement. Over the next few years, I held various engineering roles, culminating in my training in South Africa by the Japanese Institute of Planned Maintenance, JIPM, in Total Productive Maintenance, TPM, where I became a certified instructor and assessor.
From 2004 to 2010, I served as the Company TPM/PIP Manager, focusing on performance improvement in factories. In 2010, I transitioned to Nestlé Central West Africa as Market TPM Manager, a role I held for nine years, until 2019 when I was appointed Plant Manager, first Agbara Beverages and Confectionaries and Culinary, (both Agbara and Sagamu) a position I currently hold

Who would you say have been the most influential figures in your life and career?
The people that have most influenced my life are my late grandmother, and my parents . My grandmother owned vast farmland and visited each plot multiple times a week, demonstrating unwavering dedication to her work despite having laborers. Her success was evident during harvest season, where she was recognized as a formidable presence in the village. This taught me that hard work knows no gender and is essential for success.
My mother, after her NCE teachers’ training, pursued a degree in mathematics—an uncommon field for women at the time.
My father who believed in the importance of educating a girl-child, despite the many distractions and discouragements, especially when I expressed my desire to pursue a career in engineering. He worked tirelessly to ensure that I earned two degrees before embarking on my journey of marriage, and this made him immensely proud each time I was referred to as an engineer.
Their examples instilled in me the values of hard work and resilience. Lacking female engineers to learn from, I adopted a “do it yourself” approach, allowing my personality and determination to guide my career.

As a woman, what challenges have you encountered in your career, and how did you tackle them?
In the early days of my career, I faced challenges that are less prevalent today, such as skepticism from male counterparts. Comments regarding my commitment to the profession, particularly about potential pregnancy, were common. Additionally, I encountered disapproval from some women who questioned my passion for working in a traditionally male-dominated field.
I also faced the challenge of maintaining and balancing the home front, especially while my children were in their tender years, alongside my demanding pursuit of a career in engineering. The only way to navigate this was through the unwavering support of my husband, who took on the roles of both mother and father to our children whenever I was away. He encouraged me to continue without hesitation, recognizing my determination. Additionally, my siblings played a crucial role by physically visiting and calling me virtually whenever I was away, offering their support and encouragement.
Over time, my consistent passion for my work prevailed. I remained focused on my goals, enjoyed my responsibilities, and set high standards for myself. This dedication earned me respect and admiration from both male and female colleagues. The key takeaway is to never give up, stay true to oneself, and embrace the calling of being an engineer.

Can you share some memorable experiences from your career?
One memorable experience was when I was appointed Project Lead at the Sango site for Nigerian Foundries Limited. I worked alongside two artisans, a welder and an aluminum bender, on a roof over 15 meters high, climbing up and down multiple times daily to monitor the work.
Another highlight was leading a team to dismantle and reassemble a new toothpaste machine in less than 72 hours, working tirelessly to ensure supply continuity. As the CWAR TPM Manager at Nestlé, I traveled extensively, spending 48 out of 52 weeks a year implementing TPM across seven factories. This experience was challenging yet rewarding, as I developed diverse teams across different countries.

As Plant Manager for Nestlé Nigeria, what does your work entail?
My role as a Plant Manager encompasses end-to-end management of production. At Nestlé, we take pride in our greatest asset—our people. Therefore, managing our team is paramount. My responsibilities also include overseeing safety, health, and the environment where we operate, ensuring that all machines function optimally.
Quality assurance is another critical aspect; I must guarantee that our products meet all required standards while also achieving our supply targets. Additionally, I manage operational costs to maintain our competitiveness in the market. My role requires me to ensure that the culinary operations run smoothly every single day.
I also oversee various projects, including expansion initiatives and performance improvement strategies. What I cherish most about being a Plant Manager is working with such a diverse group of individuals both old and young. Currently, I manage a total above 700 people, which includes Nestlé employees and third-party. The variety of people who come to my office with different issues makes each day unique and engaging.
While I may not be a doctor, I often find myself managing the mental health and stability of my team, addressing a myriad of concerns ranging from work-related issues to family matters. This dynamic makes every day worth looking forward to, as no two days are ever the same.
Moreover, I take great pride in managing the culinary plant, which is the heart of the Nestlé brand. The various MAGGI products we produce are in high demand, and it is exhilarating to know that what we produce is quickly sold out. This drives my team and I to remain vigilant and responsive to market needs, ensuring we deliver the right quantities at the right times.
In many ways, we emulate the fast-paced environment of Formula One, adjusting quickly to changes and demands. Each day presents new challenges, and when unexpected requests arise, I rally my team to respond efficiently. This constant movement keeps us engaged and active—it’s like getting a workout without stepping foot in a gym.

What would you count as your achievements in this role?
Among my many achievements, one that stands out is knowing that I serve as a role model for younger colleagues. They observe my character and how I fulfill my responsibilities daily, which inspires them to strive for excellence. I often hear from male colleagues who express pride in having a daughter interested in engineering. I encourage them to support her aspirations wholeheartedly.
I look forward to events like open days when parents bring their children to meet me. They often ask if it’s true that I’m an engineer, and I proudly affirm that I am a mechanical engineer. Witnessing the awe in children’s faces when they realize that a woman can hold such a significant position is incredibly rewarding.
Another personal achievement is seeing the positive impact my career has had on my family. My two brothers are mechanical engineers as well as my son who is currently studying mechanical engineering, inspired by my journey. When I asked my son why he chose this path, he mentioned that my example made him believe it was possible.
Additionally, I derive immense satisfaction from surpassing our set targets. It’s a collective victory and understanding that my team and I are achieving our goals together brings me great joy. I aspire to leave behind a legacy of fulfillment and integrity.

What challenges do you face in your duties, and how do you tackle them?
Working with complex machinery presents its challenges, especially when breakdowns occur and parts take time to arrive. These delays can be frustrating, particularly when market demands are high.
Despite these hurdles, we always find a way to meet our targets, even if it means working longer hours. I feel a responsibility to support my team during breakdowns, especially since I have the engineering skills to help resolve issues.
For instance, I enjoy dismantling gears and pumps. When a breakdown occurs, I take it upon myself to ensure we get back on track. I want to hear my team say, “Mama, the line is back up and running.” That moment of success is what drives me.
Over my 30 years in the industry, I have learned to balance my responsibilities while empowering my team. I believe in trusting them to tackle challenges independently, which fosters their growth and confidence. I also encourage my team to take their leave and recharge, ensuring a healthy work-life balance for everyone involved.

As a woman, how does it feel to be a Plant Manager in a multinational manufacturing company like Nestlé Nigeria? Have your aspirations as an engineer been met?
I feel immensely grateful for the opportunity to serve as a role model, especially as the first female Plant Manager in Nestlé Central West Africa. While I take pride in this achievement, it also comes with pressure. Many younger female engineers are watching my journey, and I strive to set a positive example for them.
I continuously raise the bar for myself, pushing beyond my limits to achieve more. However, I believe there is still room for growth in my Engineering and Production career, and I aspire to explore all facets of the field.

What are your future aspirations?
I am eager to take on more challenges, and expand my sphere of influence, not only within Nestlé Nigeria but across Africa and beyond. Recently, I participated in a debate that attracted interest from individuals both within and outside the company. It was encouraging to hear from others interested in my experiences as a female engineer at Nestlé.
My future aspirations include seeking higher roles that allow me to have a broader impact as well as being open to political appointments which will afford me the opportunity of contributing immensely to the growth of Nigeria. I want to inspire others and contribute to positive change beyond my current responsibilities.

My Goal Is To Ensure 355 Group Always Operates At Peak Efficiency – Morenike George – Taylor

She is a lawyer, data manager, cybersecurity expert, project manager and risk expert. So, when approaching a challenge, she is able to analyze it through any of these lens. This multidisciplinary approach thus enables her to offer the best advice to clients even as it has been very instrumental in her career progression. The woman we speak of is Mrs Morenike George – Taylor, a granddaughter of General Samuel Ogbemudia, former Governor of Bendel State, and the current Chief Operating Officer of 355 Group.

Initially a lawyer, interestingly it was because of the several gender discriminations Morenike encountered as a woman in business that made her decide to add other certifications to her law degree. “Throughout my career” she says, “I’ve encountered several challenges specific to being a woman in business. Early on, I faced resistance from men who were uncomfortable being led by a woman. I realized early on that women often need to be significantly more prepared than their male counterparts to be taken seriously. To overcome the perceived “glass ceiling”, I focused on exceeding expectations and demonstrating my qualifications. I supplemented my law degree with several qualifications. These educational pursuits broadened my perspective and equipped me with a unique skillset.”

355 Group is a multinational holding company with interests in the hospitality sector, primarily restaurants, and a single hotel, operating across several countries. It is committed to delivering exceptional customer experiences and building strong recognizable brands. As the Group Chief Operating Officer Morenike is focused on leadership development, identifying high – potential talent and building a pipeline for future leaders. She also maintains strong relationships with key stakeholders including investors, customers, suppliers, and regulators.

In terms of achievements, she has significantly contributed to the company’s success by spearheading a restructuring initiative that streamlined reporting lines, clarified roles and responsibilities, just as she has improved communication flow across the organization resulting in demonstrable increases in efficiency. Besides, she implemented several process improvement initiatives, including the introduction of more technology and finding alternatives to reduce operational costs. Needless saying, she ensures that these efforts don’t negatively impact customer experiences.

As the company continues to expand it is necessary to maintain the same standards of quality and services across all their locations. To address this, Morenike who is the President of the Restaurants, Cafes, Bars and Clubs Association in Nigeria has seen to a standardized operating procedures and comprehensive training programme for all employees. And to keep up with the rapid pace of change in the hospitality industry, she ensures that the industry trends are constantly monitored even as conference and workshops are attended and a culture of innovation is encouraged. Ultimately, her goal for the group is to ensure it operates at peak efficiency, supports sustainable growth, and that it empowers employees to thrive.

I Am Committed To Redefining Operational Leadership In Nigeria’s Corporate Landscape-Tolulope Jinadu

Can we have an insight into your background and profile?
I am an accomplished business leader with over eight years of progressive experience in sales, business development, and operations across diverse industries. As the Director of Business Operations at Dwight Patterson, a top-tier recruitment consulting firm, I lead with a strategic mandate to optimize performance, drive business growth, and enhance organizational efficiency. My professional profile is shaped by a proven ability to lead transformation, build high-performance teams, and deliver impactful solutions that align with corporate goals. With a reputation for execution excellence and visionary thinking, I remain deeply committed to redefining operational leadership in Nigeria’s corporate landscape.

Can you take us through your career trajectory?
My career journey began in frontline sales and business development roles, where I built a solid foundation in market strategy, customer engagement, and revenue generation. This experience proved instrumental as I progressed into managerial and leadership roles, taking on responsibility for business expansion, client acquisition, and cross-functional team leadership. My transition into recruitment consulting was a strategic move that allowed me to merge my commercial expertise with a deep understanding of talent and organizational development. Today, as Director of Business Operations, I oversee the firm’s strategic direction, operational excellence, and client service delivery—driving innovation, scale, and profitability at the executive level.

As a woman, what are the challenges you have encountered in the course of your professional journey and how did you tackle them?
ANS: One of the recurring challenges has been the need to assert credibility in executive settings often dominated by male counterparts. Navigating this landscape required me to lead with substance—consistently delivering measurable results, making data-driven decisions, and communicating with authority. I also invested in continuous professional development and built a strong network of peers and mentors. These efforts, combined with a deep sense of purpose, helped me transform initial biases into earned respect. By embracing both empathy and assertiveness, I have been able to lead with influence and impact.

Can you relate some memorable experiences that you’ve had in your career?
A standout experience was spearheading a major organizational restructure that resulted in improved operational efficiency and a 40% year-on-year revenue growth. This required strategic alignment across departments, stakeholder buy-in, and bold decision-making—skills that have since become cornerstones of my leadership. Another defining moment was establishing a leadership development framework within the organization, which not only empowered junior staff to rise through the ranks but also cemented our talent pipeline. These experiences affirmed my belief in strategic foresight, inclusive leadership, and the power of execution.

You are the Director of Business Operations for Dwight Patterson, what does your company do, and what does your work entail?
Dwight Patterson is a premier recruitment consulting firm that partners with forward-thinking organizations to deliver top-tier talent and workforce solutions. Our core services include executive search, recruitment strategy, talent advisory, and organizational design. In my role as Director of Business Operations, I am responsible for the firm’s strategic planning, performance optimization, and operational governance. I provide executive oversight across service delivery, client relationship management, and internal capability development. My mandate is to ensure that our operations are not only efficient and scalable, but also aligned with the evolving needs of our clients and the broader market.

In what ways would you say you have been impacting and adding value to the company?
At the executive level, my impact spans business transformation, operational strategy, and revenue expansion. I’ve led initiatives that streamlined processes, improved client experience, and significantly increased productivity across departments. My leadership has also driven key strategic partnerships and expanded our market footprint. Internally, I’ve championed talent development and succession planning—ensuring that our people are empowered and positioned for success. I measure value not just in metrics, but in the culture of performance, excellence, and innovation I’ve cultivated.

What are your aspirations for your department?
My aspiration is to position the Business Operations department as a strategic growth engine for the company—one that exemplifies operational excellence, innovation, and thought leadership in the recruitment industry. I aim to further digitize our processes, expand our capacity to scale, and build a resilient, high-performing team that leads with insight and initiative. I envision a department that doesn’t just support the business but drives it—anticipating market shifts, setting benchmarks, and leading with a proactive, client-centered approach.

My Desire Is To Make Copley Partners The Leading Firm In Healthcare Law In Nigeria – Toyosi Fatoki

Can we have an insight into your background and profile?
I was born and raised in a family of lawyers. My parents met while studying for their law degrees at the London School of Economics and eventually became High Court judges in Ogun and Oyo States respectively. Three of my six siblings are also lawyers, one of whom is a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN. I attended University of Ibadan, where I obtained my LLB degree in 1997. I was called to the Nigerian Bar and enrolled at the Supreme Court of Nigeria in 2001, and thereafter, obtained a Master’s degree, LLM, in International Banking & Financial Law Studies from Boston University School of Law in 1999 and was called to the New York Bar in 2000.

Can you take us through your career trajectory?
My career started as an International Associate Attorney with the Coca-Cola Company in Atlanta GA, USA. Thereafter, I had a brief stint with the Law Firm of Ayanlaja & Adesanya before joining Templars Barristers, Solicitors & Advocates in 2002. In 2004 I joined Vmobile Nigeria, now Airtel Networks Limited, where I worked as a Manager in the Legal & Regulatory Division until 2015. I joined Copley Partners, Barristers, Solicitors, Arbitrators & Notaries Public in 2016 as Partner. My legal experience has mainly been in corporate and commercial law, telecommunications, legal and regulatory, dispute resolution and medical/healthcare law which happens to be my passion. Medical/healthcare law in Nigeria is an area of law which I believe has an enormous potential for growth and development especially when compared to other countries with a better structured system in that area, so it is my desire that someday in the not too distant future, not only will I be an integral part of the development of the Nigerian healthcare law, Copley will be the leading firm in that area.

Who and who would you say have been most influential on your life and career?
I would say my parents and my older brother, Seni Adio, SAN have been most influential in my career. The inestimable support of my parents and the guidance/leadership of my brother after the transition of my parents have largely shaped my career path and I remain ever grateful to them.

Can you share the memorable experiences you ‘ve had in your career?
I have had pleasant and not so pleasant memorable experiences, but I always prefer to stay with the ‘Team Positive’ so I will talk about a positive experience. I recall a boss of mine asking me once what I did to make all the clients in my portfolio so happy that whenever I sent them a fee note they didn’t argue or delay in crediting the firm’s account. It was a statement he said in passing which has stuck with me over the years, especially because I am a firm believer that success is a lot more than just delivering legal work but also forming relationships which comes from a place of building trust and actually making your clients comfortable with you. I have maintained a cordial relationship with most of the people I have met or interacted with in some way or the other in my career even long after I no longer render legal services to them. Another memorable experience I have had is the successful establishment of the medical/healthcare law practice at Copley. As I mentioned earlier, medical/healthcare Law is an area that I have a very strong passion for, so when I joined the firm I discussed this with my managing partner who gave me the go-ahead to run with my proposal and today with the support of everyone in the firm, we have a thriving medical law practice rendering legal services to medical professionals and patients. I also observed that in this area of practice, there is a need to continuously create awareness and educate all our clients, so I started a medical law series which is a quarterly training program we provide to our clients’ pro-bono just to keep them abreast of developments in that area.

In what ways would you say you have added value to Copley Partners?
I would say that I have added value to Copley as the Partner responsible for policies, processes, human resources and generally ensuring the smooth running of the firm. As a woman, I believe I am able to be more in touch with the staff formally and informally which in the long run enables me to ensure that they are properly equipped with all they require to perform efficiently and optimally. In the same capacity, I manage the firm’s client portfolio, so I ensure our clients are happy with our services and provide an easily accessible avenue for them to communicate seamlessly as the need to do so may arise.

As a Partner what are your aspirations for Copley Partners?
My aspiration for Copley is to build a law firm that is recognized not only for legal excellence but also for deep client relationships and integrity. I want us to continue to be trusted partners to our clients, offering clear strategic guidance, providing not just technically sound advice, but also practical, and innovative solutions that truly support our clients’ long-term interests. Whether it’s individuals, businesses, or institutions, I want every client to feel that they are in capable, and attentive hands. At the same time, I see the firm as a collaborative, progressive workplace that attracts and retains top legal talent. As the legal field becomes more complex and tech-driven, I want to ensure we continue to evolve with it—embracing digital tools, integrating technology and modern practices, modern case management, and alternative service models where appropriate, to keep us efficient and in tune with our clients growing and diverse needs. I also aim to foster a team-oriented culture that supports continuous learning, mentorship, and work-life balance. I’m focused on creating a supportive team culture and staying ahead of changes in the legal industry through innovation and continuous learning. As a Partner in the firm, I want to grow as a leader who develops both the firm and the people within it because I see the firm as a reflection of our values—integrity, diligence, and a genuine commitment to serving the public good.

“Be intentional about your growth”–Uzoma Dalhatu

With over 20 years of legal experience under her belt, Uzoma Dalhatu is a seasoned Lawyer, a Corporate Governance professional, a Chartered Secretary, a Certified Board Evaluator and a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment.
Uzoma’s journey started at the University of Ibadan where she obtained her Bachelor of Laws degree, after which she obtained a Barrister-at-Law (B.L) from the Nigeria Law School, Abuja. To deepen her expertise, she earned a Master’s degree in Oil and Gas Law from the University of Aberdeen, Scotland, UK . Apart from these, she is an alumnus of the Lagos Business School, a Fellow of the Association of Corporate Governance Professionals of Nigeria, a member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, UK and a member of the Compliance Institute, Nigeria. She is also a member of the Society for Corporate Governance of Nigeria.

She has worked across the financial services sector focusing on legal and regulatory compliance, business structuring and transactions advisory, company secretarial services, legal advisory, dispute resolution, stakeholder management and sustainable business strategy. She states that each role has reinforced the importance of sound governance in business.

She is currently the Assistant Company Secretary and Legal Manager for emPLE Life Assurance Limited (formerly Old Mutual Nigeria), where she provides strategic legal counsel and drives sound corporate governance practices in a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape. Beyond the technical aspects of her role, she sees herself as a value creator; aligning legal and governance strategy with broader business objectives, and fostering a culture where people feel empowered to lead and innovate. She wears various hats including serving as the Secretary of the Insurance and Pensions Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association – Section on Business Law. She is also the immediate past Secretary of the Lagos Business School Alumni Association.

As a woman, one of the major challenges Uzoma faced in her early career was uncertainty around which direction to take professionally when she was still young in the legal profession. This, she says, was because there was no structured way to access or connect with female mentors in the legal field. This experience, she hinted, fueled her passion for mentoring young female professionals. Flowing from this, she pioneered the Mentorship Programme of the Old Mutual Women’s Network in Nigeria, now known as Network of emPLE Women, a network dedicated to the personal and professional development of women.

Yet another challenge she encountered in her early career had to do with institutional bias. According to her, at one organization which she joined as a lawyer with the expectation of working in the legal department, she was reassigned to another department as there were no females in the legal department. These experiences, she stressed, though disheartening, only helped to fuel her determination to succeed and excel.

Uzoma states that one of the most fulfilling aspects of her career has been the opportunity to impact lives through mentorship; helping others grow, succeed, and develop their own leadership abilities. She adds that a memorable chapter in her career journey is being recognized as a thought leader in her profession because of her innovative ideas. She once won an award in this regard as the Most Innovative Employee. She says: “Throughout my career I’ve had the privilege of experiencing memorable moments that have shaped my perspective on value creation. Ultimately, each phase of my career has been more than just a job, it’s been a chapter in an ongoing learning journey. It has shaped my view on the importance of leadership that goes beyond traditional roles, the value of creating a positive organizational culture, and the fundamental belief that our impact should be felt far beyond the office.

Abimbola Akindiilete: Spearheading Change Management And Culture Immersion At Wole Olanipekun & Co

Can we have an insight into your backgroundand profile?
I am Abimbola Victoria Akindiilete, a consummate human resources and administrative management professional with over 12 years of cross-sector experience spanning various industries within the corporate sector. I have had my stints in the legal, education, healthcare, engineering, real estate, energy, consulting, and oil & gas sectors. I currently serve as the Head of HR & Admin at Wole Olanipekun& Co., a reputable Nigerian law firm withover40yearsofcutting-edge legal service provision to its teeming clients, with offices in Lagos and Abuja, and service presence in over 20 states of the federation.
Professionally, I hold the SPHRi, Senior Professional in Human Resources – International certification, along with credentials in HR Business Partnership, HRBP, Project Management, PMP, and other professional development certifications, and I am an Associate Member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria, ACIPM.
Academically, I hold a Bachelor of Arts, Ed. and Master of Arts both in English Language. Being career-driven and one who dares to broaden her knowledge base, I am also currently pursuing a Master in Business Administration degree with the ultimate goal of one day bagging a Doctor of Business Administration degree and many more. In the expression of my career, I do that with a blend of strategy, structure, and empathy— driven by a commitment to enabling organisations and people to thrive.

Can you take us through your career trajectory?My HR journey officially began in 2015 when I transitioned fully into human resources through a role with a start-up consulting firm. Prior to that, I started my career in 2012 asan Admin Clerk at a business communication outfit. I rose through the ranks in administrative roles,and while I was often exposed to HR-related tasks, it was in 2015 that I embraced HR as my core professional path. Since then,I have taken on increasingly strategic roles that deepened my expertise in talent management, performance, culture transformation, and compliance. I joined Wole Olanipekun&Co.to lead a structured transformation in administrative systems and people practices. Each step has strengthened my resolve to make HR a business enabler, not just a support function.

Who and who would you say have been most influential on your life and career?
Professionally, I have been greatly influenced by forward-thinking leaders like Dr. Oluyemi Adeosun, Mr.YemiFaseun, and Mr.Victor Adebayo, whose work continues to inspire me to see HR not just as a support function but as a strategic business solution drive
I am also deeply inspired byChief Wole Olanipekun, CFR,SAN,under whose tutelage I have learned invaluable lessons on leadership, excellence, and the importance of continuously pushing beyond limits to become more. His belief in people’s potential and his constant encouragement have shaped much of my professional growth.
Personally, my parents—both teachers instilled in me the values of discipline, integrity, and the power of education. Their example of hardwork and selflessness continues to shape how I lead and serve. I’m also inspired by resilient women leaders who lead with both strength and empathy.

Can you relate some memorable experiences that you’ve had in the course of your career?
One of the most rewarding experiences in my career has been spearheading a Change Management and Culture Immersion programmeat Wole Olanipekun & Co.
We started the process by conducting anEmployee Engagement Surveyto understand staff perceptions and improvement areas. This was followed by a firm-wide retreat, which created a safe space for open conversations on values, leadership, and expectations. From there, we rolled out the main programme, designed to align people, processes, and systems with the firm’s strategic goals.
We are currently rounding off the programme, and it has already led to several internal reforms and improvements across different layers of the organisation. This experience reinforced my belief in the power of structured, intentional HR and Leadership interventions to drive meaningful change.

You are the Head of HR & Admin Management for Wole Olanipekun &Co. what does your work entail?
My role includes overseeing the full HR and Administrative lifecycle—from recruitment and performance management to staff welfare, compliance, fleet and facility coordination, and administrative systems. I also drive strategy implementation in alignment with the firm’s values and legal service excellence.

What are the challenges being encountered in your line of duties and how have you been surmounting them?
Working in a fast-paced legal environment requires balancing structure with agility. One of the ongoing dynamics is ensuring that policies andinternal processes remainadaptable and clearly understood by diverse teams. I will give you an example—working with a multi- generational workforce where different teams have varying expectations of processes, communication, and speed of execution. Balancing these realities while keeping everyone aligned with organisational goals requires intentional engagement and leadership support.
To address this, I place strong emphasis on clear communication, leadership engagement, and practical implementation frameworks. I also help bridge generational expectations and streamline support systems—ensuring that our internal operations align with the firm’s high standards of integrity, legal excellence, and service delivery.

My Aspiration Is To Grow Tergo Energy Into A Key Player In The Gas And Renewable Energy Sectors Of Nigeria – Isioma Martins

Tergo Energy Ltd is a subsidiary of Pan African Capital Holdings that is focused on providing gas and renewable energy solutions. At the core of its business is the wholesale and retail trading of gas, provision of gas infrastructure for cooking, cooling, heating, power and transport; provision of renewable energy solutions for homes, offices, SMES and industries, and the deployment of charging infrastructure to support electric mobility solutions.

Noteworthy is the fact that the person who pilots the affairs of this firm today is a female – EngrIsioma Martins. A civil engineering graduate of the University of Lagos, Isioma also possesses a post graduate degree in Environmental Engineering and Business Management from Imperial College, London. Now strictly focused on environmental engineering because of the gap she identified in environmental management in Lagos, she has been providing solutions that improves people’s lives. In fact, her joining Tergo Energy in 2023 has seen her leveraging her expertise to drive business growth and deliver solutions within the gas and renewable energy space.

Speaking about Tergo Energy, she said: “We have made commendable strides in establishing a presence in LPG and propane trading as well as in the provision of energy solutions to domestic, commercial and industrial customers. We have also established partnerships and alliances with strong players in both the gas and renewable energy space to be better positioned to achieve our goal of providing sustainable, affordable energy solutions across Nigeria and sub – Saharan Africa”

According to her, one significant challenge she faced in the career at the early years was the lack of access to female role models in her field, and this led to feelings of inadequacy, self – doubt, and hesitation in pursuing leadership roles. But to overcome them, she said she focused on building strong relationships, networking, and continuously developing her skills even as she sought out mentorship programmes.

Relating the indelible experiences she has had in her career, she noted that it was those moments when she has had the opportunity to give back through mentoring and empowering young people. She stressed: “Being able to share my journey and experiences to motivate and hopefully inspire the younger generation to think big and focus on value creation has been truly rewarding.”

On her aspirations for Tergo Energy, she says it is to grow it into a key player within the gas and renewable energy sectors, makes it become a leading provider of sustainable and affordable energy solutions firm which will in turn create value for the group. “My goals include expanding our project portfolio and solutions offerings, improving our brand reputation, enhancing operational efficiency and fostering a culture of excellence within the organization”, she offered.

Morenike Alayerogun : A Tried And Tested HR Leader Performing Wonders At OlamAgri – IFP

A strategic human resources professional, Morenike Alayerogun has had over 22 years working in the HRfunction in different companies. A versatile practitioner, she possesses know – how on various facets ofhr management including talent acquisition, employee relations, industrial relations, talent and performance management, compensation and benefits, as well as organizational development. Of course, hers is a tried and tested record of implementing effective recruitment strategies which align with organizational goals as well as designing training programmes that enhance employee skills and performance.

Commencing herhrcareer at Solid Foundation Estates where she served as HR & Admin Officer, she has worked in various other companies like HCDC, Cityscape International Ltd, LeadwayPensure PFA Ltd, PZ Cussons Plc, all in hr functions. Currently, she serves as the General Manager, Human Resources at OlamAgri – IFP, where she oversees hr operations and strategy, driving organizational effectiveness, enhancing employee experience, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Expatiating on her role in the company, the hr expert said: “I am involved in shaping the company’s hr vision and policies that align with the evolving agricultural industry landscape while ensuring we have a skilled and engaged workforce to meet our strategic goals. Throughout my career, I have developed a robust skill set in hr management, performance enhancement, and strategic partnership with business leaders. I remain committed to continuous learning and adapting hr practices to meet the needs of both employees and the organization”

Her career, she says, had seen many memorable moments. Part of this is the fact that she led multiple restructuring and workforce optimization projects at PZ Cussons even as she was instrumental in driving organizational efficiency and aligning talent with business objectives there. At LeadwayPensure, she equally recalled leading the establishment of the Learning Academy, thereby creating a platform for continuous professional development and capacity building. And currently at OlamAgri –IFP, she has been in the forefront of championing strategic and cultural transformations within the people function.

Alayerogun admitted that she has had doses of gender bias in her career journey too, saying: “Women in leadership are sometimes judged more harshly or underestimated, especially in male – dominated environments. As women, we are constantly faced with the risk of our assertiveness being misinterpreted as haughtiness or aggressiveness rather than confidence.” However, she stated that she has coped with it by focusing on results and letting her performance speak, building support networks, prioritizing her mental health, continuous learning and self – development, prioritizing tasks, setting clear boundaries and delegating effectively.

My Passion For HR Comes From A Desire To Help Individuals Thrive – Norena Francis – Osuagwu,

Norena Francis – Osuagwu, the Human Resources Manager, GB Foods Africa is a strategic human resources practitioner with over 15 years of multi – industry experience spanning fmcg, e – commerce, energy, logistics and retail. As a matter of fact, her focus had always been to align people strategy with business performance – driving transformation, building strong teams, and delivering results that matter.

She holds an MBA in Human Resources Management from Ladoke Akintola University, a Post Graduate Diploma in Human Capital Management from the University of Lagos, and a Bachelor’s in Business Administration from the University of Benin. She also holds certification in Project Management and Workplace Health and Safety from UK.

Asked why she took to the human resources profession, she answered: “I ‘ve always believed that people are the engine behind every great business. My passion for HR comes from a deep desire to help individuals thrive whether through coaching, engagement, or structured career development. HR gives me a platform to blend empathy and strategy, and to create real impact on both people and organizational growth”.

Today, as the HR Manager for GB Foods Africa, she partners with leadership to align human capital with strategic business outcomes. She also manages performance systems, oversees talent pipelines whilst also maintaining labour law compliance. Additionally, she leads employee engagement, industrial relations and safety initiatives.

Narrating her evergreen experiences in the profession, she recounted: “One of the most defining experiences was leading a $50million investor transition and buy – over without union disruption. It tested every skill I had – negotiation, communication, strategy – and ultimately reinforced my ability to lead through complexity.

“Another highlight was spearheading a major restructuring at GB Foods, where I led workforce redesign at the factory level. It sharpened my project management and reinforced the power of structured, people – centric change”

As for the challenges she had faced in her career odyssey, she mentioned the problem of balancing the demanding career with motherhood as one of the biggest but that her strong family support network was the blessing she had. Also, she stated that she had faced gender biases but had been able to overcome this by staying consistent and delivering results.

Francis – Osuagwu opined that investing in girl – child education is essential for Nigeria’s development because when girls are educated, communities will be uplifted and future leaders are going to be shaped. However, she lamented that Nigeria is still not where it is supposed to be in terms of girl – child education as too many girls face barriers to education from poverty to cultural norms.

And to aspiring female professionals, she counsels: “Know your worth, own your seat at the table. Build a strong network, seek out mentors, and never let fear or failure define you. Every setback is a step for growth”

Omowunmi Sanni: Partner Advising Clients On Corporate Compliance And Board Dynamics at Duale, Ovia & Alex – Adedipe

After Law School, Omowunmi Sanni’s plan was to join a conglomerate, rise through the ranks and ultimately become Company Secretary/ Head of Legal. This was because during her undergraduate days, and even in Law School, she wasn’t drawn to litigation, and saw herself thriving more as an in – house counsel. But man proposes, God disposes. God had other plans for her.

Now a Partner at Duale, Ovia& Alex – Adedipe, DOA, a highly rated law firm in the country, Sanni intoned: “However, during my service year, I began to appreciate the breadth of exposure a law firm could offer, so I decided to spend just one year in private practice to build a solid foundation. That one year has turned to two decades. Today, I can say with absolute certainty that not only have my expectations after Law School been met, they’ve been far exceeded. The journey has taken me well beyond the theories studied in classrooms and libraries.”

A granddaughter of the reverred Justice Owolabi Kolawole, OFR, a retired Justice of the Court of Appeal, now of blessed memory, Omowunmi decided to become a lawyer because of the way her grandfather commanded respect and authority not only in the courtroom but also with the way people listened intently when he spoke. She thus began her career at Babalakin & Co where she did her youth service and got retained. There, she honed her skills across various aspects of commercial law and corporate practice for nine years before leaving for Origin Tech Group as Head of Legal & Corporate Services and thereafter moved over to Chris Ogunbanjo Nominees Ltd as Managing Director.

Today, as the partner leading the company secretarial and corporate governance practice at Duale, Ovia& Alex – Adedipe, she advises a diverse portfolio of clients on corporate compliance, board dynamics and governance structuring, drawing on over two decades of multidisciplinary legal experience.

According to her, one of the most defining aspects in her career has been the opportunity to work closely with diverse board members and executive stakeholders. Navigating this space, she says, requires a high degree of maturity, diplomacy and emotional intelligence. “What often starts as negotiation transforms into collaboration. Some of my most rewarding moments have come from witnessing that transformation – where alignment is achieved and a culture of integrity and performance is strengthened,” she stressed.

At the core of Omowunmi’s aspirations is a desire to honour God with the skills and gifts He has embedded in her.

Ozioma Agu: Serial Award Winner Making Immense Impact AtStren&Blan Partners

A serial award winner, OziomaAgu, Partner at Stren&Blan Partners has been a model of excellence from youth. Born and raised in Enugu, the avid reader had been winning laurels since she was in primary school and is still winning them till date. In 2005 while still in primary school, she emerged as the overall winner for a reading competition organized for all primary schools in Enugu State, even as she was top in her class all through her primary education.

At the Federal Government College, Enugu where she had her secondary education too, she was consistently top of her class as well, and was a recipient of several state and national laurels emerging as a two – time national champion of the Securities and Exchange Competition on Capital Markets in 2009 and 2010. And when she entered University of Nigeria, Nsukka for her law programme, the practice continued. She graduated in the top 3% of her class and took part in several competitions on tax, moot courts and legal writing, ending up winning several awards including Woman of the Year 2015; Outstanding Female Advocate of the Year 2014, as well as Best Counsel and Best Advocate in various legal debates. She was equally one of the winners of the maiden edition of the West African Tax competition organized by General Electric, EY, KPMG, Deloitte and PwC in 2015.

It is thus no wonder that Ozioma has been excelling in the practice of law and winning honours and recognitions too. She was named one of IFLR’s leading lawyers for four years in a row from 2021 to 2024; Legal 500’s Recommended Lawyer; African Energy Chamber 25 Under 40 Women Rising Stars in Energy, and ESQ’s 40 Under 40 and many others.

Ozioma who did her NYSC at Detail Commercial Solicitors, moved to Bloomfield Law Practice afterwards. As she said, it was at Bloomfield that she got her first hands – on experience with structured transactions. “I was thrown into live deals early on, which was both intense and exciting. It pushed me to grow fast”she stated. From here, she crossed over to Aluko&Oyebode, which she says was the turning point for her as she with her colleagues worked on some of the biggest energy and finance transactions in the country.

At Stren&Blan Partners where she is a partner at present, she leads the energy, finance, infrastructure and tax practice group. Said she: “It’s been incredibly rewarding because I’ve been able to build a team and shape the kind of work we take on, from multi – tiered financings, complex concessions and PPPs, landmark energy deals including state policy designs to headline energy transactions, renewable projects, project financing, advising on headline infrastructure deals.”

On the memorable moments in her career, Ozioma says one that she can never forget was working on a $250 million Tier II facility from the US Development Finance Corporation to the African Finance Corporation and an FMO multimillion USD lending to Access Bank. According to her, it was one of those deals that brought together global parties, multiple regulatory layers and intense negotiation.

My Aspiration Is To Continuously Develop Professionally And To Impact The Next Generation – Simisola Eyisanmi

Simisola Eyisanmi obtained her law degree from the University of Ilorin and Masters from the University of Lagos. Her NYSC was done at the Ministry of Justice, Port Harcourt where she served as State Counsel. After her youth service, she secured employment as a legal officer at an accounting firm, Sam Oyemade& Co from where she joined Chris Ogunbanjo LP, where she worked for over 10 years before moving over to Duale, Ovia& Alex – Adedipe Partners, DOA where she is at present the partner managing the capital market team of the firm.

Simisola who is the current Vice Chairman of the Capital Market Solicitors Association of Nigeria said she was attracted to law because she was an avid reader while young, growing up to read books authored by Sydney Sheldon, John Grisham, Danielle Steel, while also watching drama series of Matlock. These series, she says, often fascinated her because of the logical and intellectual reasoning in solving mysteries and advocating for justice against all odds.

A corporate commercial lawyer today, she contends that her dreams after law school had been met. Said she; “During my mandatory NYSC year at the Ministry of Justice, Port Harcourt, I was in court almost four times a week and thought I would be a solicitor all through my career. However, I had a 360 degree mind shift when I worked in – house briefly and I aspired to become a practicing corporate commercial lawyer which I am today”

On the unforgettable experiences that she has had in her career, she stated: “The first would be my first solo appearance without any colleague at the Court of Appeal in Port Harcourt as state counsel in a matter between a prominent multinational oil and gas company and a community, where the state government was joined as a party. The second would be a corporate commercial transaction that spanned across four continents and several foreign counterparts”.

Simisola considers being underestimated because she is female as one of the challenges she has faced in her career but informed that she had always tackled this by bringing her best to everything she does. Her aspirations is to continuously develop professionally and to impact the next generation.

And to aspiring female lawyers, she enjoined them to be fearless and stay focused. She told them: “When your work is excellent and stellar, it will speak for you even when you are not in the room”

I Aspire To Continue Influencing Legal Reform In Nigeria – Soibi Ovia, Co – Founder, Duale, Ovia& Alex Adedipe

“For me, becoming a lawyer was more than a career path, it was about finding purpose. This is because law has always fascinated me as a tool for driving change, securing justice, and preserving equity. I was drawn to the power of legal reasoning and advocacy, how law serves as a pillar for governance, commerce and social development”

The above was Mrs Soibi Ovia’s response when asked why she decided to become a lawyer. She adds: “Additionally, I had and still have the vision of being at the forefront of the legal revolution, transforming economic growth and digital evolution through the instrumentality of the law as well as a vision to set new precedents in Nigerian jurisprudence.”

Ovia, a proud daughter of Rivers State was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2007 and is a Co – Founding Partner and the Head of the Litigation and Dispute Resolution Practice of Duale, Ovia& Alex Adedipe, DOA. A fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, UK, she began her legal career in Jackson, Etti&Edu where she gained a grounding in commercial litigation, arbitration and dispute resolution before co – founding DOA in 2015. Over the years, she has handled several high-profile cases spanning a wide array of industries and advised major corporate and governmental stakeholders. Beyond the courtroom, she has also been actively involved in shaping pivotal legislative instruments governing the finance and tax sectors and propagating the digital evolution of the Nigerian economy.

Relating some indelible experiences in her career journey, she said: ” Securing landmark judgements and favourable outcomes for my clients always proves to be a powerful moment, both legally and socially. Similarly, the opportunity to represent the Nigerian government in disputes worth a very significant sum was equally memorable. More recently, contributing to national legislation has also been a unique privilege”.

She continued: “Undoubtedly, receiving recognition for my work and my team’s work, whether global or local, also always proves to be a memorable moment. Most recently our firm was ranked highly in the Legal 500 EMEA 2025 Rankings, and I was proud to have been ranked as a Leading Partner in Dispute Resolution. These milestones serve as a welcome recognition of our hard work and as a poignant reminder that law is not just a profession, it is a platform for impact”

Having successfully led her team in handling billion – dollar disputes, Ovia has no doubt positioned the firm as one to be trusted both locally and internationally. A testament to her impact and value in the firm comes from the several laurels she and her team has won which included the Global Law Experts Dispute Resolution Law Firm of the Year Award in 2023 and nominations for the African Legal Awards in 2022 and 2024.

The Vice Chairman of the NBA – SBL Arbitration & ADR Committee aspires to continue influencing legal reform in Nigeria particularly in the areas of digital regulation, commercial litigation and gender equity whilst also mentoring more young professionals and expanding her firm’s global footprint. She also aspires to achieve the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN, someday.

Roselyn Obakpolor: Fighting Injustice Through The Courts

Roselyn Obakpolor studied Law at the University of Benin just as she
earned a Master in the discipline from the University of Lagos, and also a Master of Science from the University of Dundee, Scotland. Called to the Bar in 2000, she has been in practice as a litigator since then. She is currently a Partner at Brickmans Law, a firm of seasoned and astute practitioners with diverse legal skills.

The desire to seek justice for the oppressed and those denied their rights was the uppermost consideration in Roselyn’s aspiration to become a lawyer having been a victim of such herself when her father died. Said she: “My mother and her children were driven out of my father’s house by my father’s relatives and made to live in abject poverty whilst the relatives feasted on my father’s wealth. My father before his untimely death was a very rich surveyor and businessman in Benin City then. Unfortunately, he passed away at age 41 as a result of a fatal accident. My mum struggled endlessly to care for us. I told my mum one day whilst I was still very young that when I grow up, I will read law and become a lawyer to right the wrongs done to her and get her justice.”

Though her mum also did not live to see her become a lawyer because she died whilst Roselyn was still in the university, Roselyn is however glad today that the purpose for which she read law is being fulfilled as she has been fighting the cause of the oppressed and the trampled – upon in Nigeria today through the instrumentality of the courts and she has many cases to cite.

As the Vice Chairman of NBA Ikeja branch between 2018 and 2020, she was automatically the Chairman of the Human Rights Committee of the branch. She and her members visited correctional centres across Lagos State during her tenure and spoke to awaiting trial inmates, many of who have been in custody for months and years without trial. Her committee took up their cases pro bono and got 80% of the over 100 they fought for released through the court. The joy of seeing these citizens regain their freedom, their jubilations rolling on the floor, jumping and shouting` thank you on top of their lungs in gratitude is a satisfaction money cannot bring, she declared.

Amongst those she can never forget in her career journey is His Lordship Hon Justice Atinuke Komolafe – Wilson, now retired, who was the judge she with her colleagues from the Law School did their court attachment in her court. She says she can never forget the positive impact the judge made on her during court sittings and chamber meetings. Another positive influence was Mr Tunde Adejuyigbe, SAN, whom she says is a father both in the faith and profession who watches out for her progress in the profession and is always ready to offer assistance.

An experience she won’t forget in a hurry was the one she had with the current Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon Justice Kudirat Kekere -Ekun in 2004. At that time His Lordship was still a judge in the Lagos State Judiciary. She said even without knowing her from anywhere, she helped her secure her first job in a law firm in Lagos then. “That encounter made a landmark impression on me. Not many would do that in present day Nigeria,” she remarked.