Womanifesto, a coalition of more than 300 women’s rights organisations, has congratulated Mrs Oyinkansola Badejo Okusanya, SAN, on her election as the 33rd President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), describing her victory as a major milestone for women’s leadership and gender inclusion in Nigeria.
According to a report by The Guardian, the coalition, in a statement signed by its Convener, Dr Abiola Akiyode Afolabi, said Badejo Okusanya’s emergence marks a defining moment in the history of the legal profession as she becomes the second woman to lead the NBA and the first to attain the office through a direct electoral mandate.
Womanifesto noted that while the late Mrs Priscilla Kuye became the NBA’s first female president after constitutionally succeeding a former president who was appointed Attorney General of the Federation, Badejo Okusanya’s victory through a competitive election reflects growing confidence in the competence and leadership of women.
The coalition described the outcome of the election as a significant step forward for gender inclusion, saying it demonstrates that women continue to break barriers in professions that have traditionally been dominated by men.
It added that the victory is not only a personal achievement for Badejo Okusanya but also an inspiration to millions of Nigerian women and girls aspiring to leadership positions, reaffirming that competence, integrity and resilience remain the foundation of effective leadership.
Womanifesto also commended members of the Nigerian Bar Association for strengthening internal democracy by electing a woman of proven capacity and distinguished professional standing to lead the association.
The coalition expressed confidence in the President elect’s ability to provide effective leadership for the NBA, stating that her experience, professionalism and commitment to justice would strengthen the association, promote the rule of law and support reforms that would benefit both the legal profession and the nation.
It further wished Badejo Okusanya a successful tenure and pledged continued support for initiatives that advance justice, gender equality, human rights and national development.
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