In a landmark victory for gender equality, five women have won crucial executive roles in the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) National Elections held on July 20, 2024. The newly elected officials include the 2nd and 3rd Vice Presidents, Treasurer, National Publicity Secretary, and Assistant National Publicity Secretary, demonstrating the association’s commitment to inclusivity.
As contained in a signed statement by the outgoing National Publicity Secretary, Akorede Habeeb Lawal, the Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (ECNBA) officially announced the results on 21 July 2024, marking a historic achievement for women in the legal profession and an unprecedented display of gender equality by the association.
According to the statement, the newly elected members of the NBA National Executive Committee are:
- Mazi Afam Josiah Osigwe, SAN – President
- Sebastine Anyia – 1st Vice-President
- Mrs. Bolatumi Olasunbo Animashaun – 2nd Vice President
- Mrs. Zainab Aminu Garba – 3rd Vice-President
- Dr. Mobolaji Idris Ojibara – General Secretary
- Mr. Henry Barnabas Ehi – Assistant General Secretary
- Mrs. Blessing Imo Udofa-Poromon – Treasurer
- Mr. Nyada Auta – Welfare Secretary
- Mrs. Bridget Ijeoma Edokwe – Publicity Secretary
- Miss Ebiere Emmanuella Ekpese – Assistant Publicity Secretary
The Women News reports that this election marks a significant step towards gender parity, with women constituting half of the executive committee. The NBA’s dedication to an inclusive leadership environment reflects the growing acknowledgment of women’s pivotal contributions to the legal field.
Outgoing NBA President Mr. Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau, OON, SAN, extended congratulations to the newly elected President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, and his team, describing their victory as a “call to service.” He underscored the importance of their roles in furthering the Bar’s objectives for its members and the public.
Mr. Maikyau also praised all election candidates for their commitment to the NBA’s mission and urged continued support for the association’s leadership. He lauded the integrity, transparency, and efficiency of the election process, crediting the success to the ECNBA’s diligent efforts under Mr. Oluseun Abimbola, SAN.
“This election shall serve as a model not only for subsequent NBA elections but as a template that could be considered for the nation at large,” Mr. Maikyau stated.
The elections of Mrs. Bolatumi Olasunbo Animashaun, Mrs. Zainab Aminu Garba, Mrs. Blessing Imo Udofa-Poromon, Mrs. Bridget Ijeoma Edokwe, and Miss Ebiere Emmanuella Ekpese signal a progressive shift within the NBA. Their success highlights the increasing recognition of women’s essential roles in the legal profession and their influence in shaping the association’s future.
Newly elected 3rd Vice President Zainab Aminu Garba expressed her gratitude for the support leading to her election and pledged to work towards the association’s advancement. She emphasized the collective effort required to enhance the NBA’s legacy, stating, “Together we can make the NBA greater than it already is.”
Similarly, Treasurer-Elect Blessing Udofa-Poromon committed to contributing to a better NBA. She thanked her supporters for their trust and pledged to work tirelessly to fulfill their expectations.
As the NBA continues to advocate for diversity and inclusion, this milestone inspires women in the legal field, reinforcing that leadership opportunities are equally accessible to all. The newly elected women executives are set to bring their unique perspectives and expertise to their roles, paving the way for a more dynamic and equitable NBA.