By Odita Sunday
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has congratulated Mrs. Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya on her election as the 33rd President of the Nigerian Bar Association, describing her emergence as a historic breakthrough for women and a defining moment in Nigeria’s legal profession.
The Council said Badejo-Okusanya’s emergence as the first woman democratically elected to lead the NBA demonstrates that competence, integrity, resilience and visionary leadership are not determined by gender.
In a statement signed by the Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, the union described the election as a victory not only for the legal profession but also for Nigerian women and young professionals striving to overcome barriers through merit, hard work and dedication.
The Council noted that the development resonates with its own recent milestone following the emergence of Comrade Grace Ike as the first female Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council in its 43-year history.
According to the statement, the two landmark achievements underscore the growing acceptance of inclusive and merit-based leadership across Nigeria’s professional institutions.
”The emergence of two women to lead two of Nigeria’s foremost professional bodies within such a short period is a powerful statement that the nation’s institutions are increasingly embracing competence and excellence above all else.
”We believe these achievements will inspire a new generation of women to aspire to leadership and contribute meaningfully to national development,” the statement said.
The NUJ FCT also commended the Nigerian Bar Association for its enduring role in defending constitutional democracy, promoting the rule of law, safeguarding fundamental human rights and advancing justice in the country.
It expressed confidence that Badejo-Okusanya’s leadership would strengthen public confidence in the legal profession, consolidate on the association’s achievements and champion reforms that would further improve the administration of justice.
The Council reaffirmed its commitment to deepening collaboration between the media and the legal profession in promoting democratic governance, accountability, press freedom, human rights and the rule of law.
It wished the NBA President-elect a successful and impactful tenure, expressing optimism that her administration would leave a lasting legacy of transformational leadership, professional excellence and expanded opportunities for future generations of legal practitioners and women leaders.
