President-Elect of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, SAN, FCIArb (UK), has extended a goodwill message to the African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA) Nigeria ahead of its 2026 Annual Conference, commending the association for its enduring commitment to the advancement of women in the legal profession. She conveyed her warm felicitations to the President of AWLA Nigeria, Mrs. Caroline Ibharuneafe, the executive committee, the conference planning committee, and members of the association as they gather for the conference themed “Excellence Wears Heels.”
Describing the theme as both timely and inspiring, the NBA President-Elect noted that it reflects the excellence, resilience, and leadership that women continue to demonstrate within the legal profession. She praised AWLA Nigeria for promoting professionalism, mentorship, and unity among women lawyers, expressing optimism that the conference would foster meaningful dialogue, strengthen collaborations, and reinforce the collective commitment to empowering women to lead and shape the future of the Bar.
Read full statement below;
GOODWILL MESSAGE
I extend my warmest greetings to the President of African Women Lawyers Association, AWLA Nigeria, Mrs. Caroline Ibharuneafe, her excos, the Parley planning Committee and the members on the occasion of our 2026 Annual Conference themed “Excellence wears Heels.”
The theme is apt. It speaks to the excellence, resilience, and leadership that women bring to the legal profession. It also reminds us of our shared responsibility: to build a Bar where women are not only present, but empowered to lead, to thrive, and to shape the future of our profession.
I commend AWLA Nigeria for its steadfast work in advancing the interests of women lawyers and in strengthening the bonds of sisterhood and professionalism.
May this conference yield robust conversations, new alliances, and renewed resolve. May AWLA Nigeria continue to rise in strength, unity, and excellence.
Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, SAN, FCIArb (UK)
President-Elect, Nigerian Bar Association