In a thoughtful and personal endorsement, Ayodele Oni, Partner and Chair of the Energy Practice Group at Bloomfield Law Practice and acclaimed author, has thrown his support behind Tobenna Erojikwe for the presidency of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA). This endorsement comes just days before the highly anticipated NBA elections, adding a significant voice to the discourse surrounding the candidates.
Oni, known for his expertise in energy law and his contributions to legal literature, began his endorsement by acknowledging the overall quality of the candidates in this election cycle. He stated, “The candidates for the NBA elections happening later this week are amongst the strongest we have seen in a long time and are all excellent candidates.” This recognition of the high caliber of all candidates lends additional weight to his specific endorsement of Erojikwe.
Highlighting his personal experience with Erojikwe, Oni shared, “I have had the opportunity to work closely with him and we do share the common belief that it is more worthwhile to teach people to fish than to occasionally give them fish.” This statement underscores Erojikwe’s commitment to sustainable empowerment within the legal profession, a theme that resonates throughout Oni’s endorsement.
Oni also emphasized Erojikwe’s role in the success of the previous NBA administration under Olumide Akpata, noting, “He has been impactful and was a substantial part of the success of Olumide Akpata, as NBA President, with many brilliant ideas which stood that administration out.” This insight into Erojikwe’s behind-the-scenes contributions provides voters with a glimpse of his potential effectiveness as NBA President.
A key point in Oni’s endorsement is Erojikwe’s dedication to education and knowledge-sharing within the NBA. Oni stated, “Tobenna has been instrumental to the expansion of knowledge within the ranks of the NBA, through his chairmanship of the training arm of the NBA.” This aligns with Oni’s own passion for teaching and knowledge-sharing, suggesting a shared vision for the future of legal education within the NBA.
In a powerful conclusion, Oni asserted, “Whilst not running down any other candidate, I am of the firm view that Tobenna is most likely to be the most impactful, based on the impact he had made previously in empowering several other lawyers and giving the rest of us the opportunity to add excellent value. Life is about value-addition. Tobenna will add excellent value.”
This endorsement from a respected figure in energy law and legal education could potentially sway voters, especially those who value ongoing professional development and empowerment within the legal profession. Oni’s emphasis on Erojikwe’s track record of impact and value-addition presents a compelling case for his candidacy.
As the NBA elections approach, this endorsement adds to the growing chorus of support for Erojikwe from various sectors of the legal community. It remains to be seen how this and other endorsements will influence the final outcome of what promises to be a closely watched election.
The NBA elections, set to take place later this week, will determine the leadership of one of Africa’s largest professional associations. The chosen president will be tasked with guiding the NBA through the evolving challenges and opportunities facing the legal profession in Nigeria and beyond.
