The founder and Principal Partner, Babalakin & Co., Dr Wale Babalakin (SAN), has stated that hardwork, resilience and determination are the major pillars of professional distinction.
Speaking at a reception in Lagos on Friday night in honour of the firm’s partner, Mr Oluseun Awonuga, who was elevated to the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Babalakin said the celebrant, who started his legal career in the firm, is a determined advocate. He congratulated Awonuga on the feat, noting that the firm takes pride in nurturing talents that rise to national and international prominence.
“Our firm has always been a fertile ground for excellence. When we started 37 years ago, we started with just two lawyers. But today, we have over 80 lawyers across states.
“We are happy that we are not lone stars. The system has continued to produce outstanding lawyers. Today, we have produced 10 SANs and two of them started with us from law school attachment, youth corps and now SANs.
“Awonuga is a determined advocate, a serious lawyer, and a great team player. I just want to say that all these had happened only because of the goodwill of our clients. We have been around for a while. I’m very happy to be retiring soon from Babalakin and Co., knowing that we have a formidable team,” he declared.
Dr Babalakin added that Awonuga’s elevation reinforces the firm’s legacy of contributing to the growth of Nigeria’s legal profession.
“This recognition is not just about individual brilliance; it reflects our shared culture of hard work, integrity, and devotion to justice,” he said.
In his welcome address, the firm’s Managing Partner, Mr Wale Akoni (SAN), expressed pride in Awonuga’s accomplishment.
“Today, we celebrate not just an individual achievement but a testament to dedication, perseverance, and the spirit of mentorship that defines our firm,” Akoni said, describing the new SAN as a lawyer of “outstanding intellect, humility, and professional discipline.” Responding, the celebrant, Mr Awonuga (SAN), expressed gratitude to his mentors and colleagues for their support.
“I am deeply honoured to have walked this journey surrounded by such inspiring minds. This rank is a call to greater responsibility, and I remain committed to upholding the highest ideals of the legal profession,” he remarked.
Several partners and associates described Awonuga as a lawyer of exceptional diligence and composure. One of the partners, Tola Oshobi (SAN), said: “His rise to the Inner Bar is richly deserved — he’s a mentor to many and a slave driver, who brings out the best from his juniors.”
Also, a partner, Dr Kunbi Udofia, who read his citations, praised the doggedness of the celebrant. Tributes from partners, associates, family and friends described the achievement as a milestone in the firm’s tradition of excellence.
