Last Friday, members of the African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA), led by their President, Caroline Ibharuneafe Esq., and Vice President, Felicitas Nwaobi, Esq., joined other lawyers to witness and celebrate with Uchenna Ogunedo Akingbade at her swearing-in ceremony as the 28th Chair of the Nigerian Bar Association, Lagos Branch.
Following the formal ceremony of 25 July 2025, Uchenna made history as the first-ever female to hold this high office, dating back to Nigeria’s independence.
After winning the election a few weeks ago, the new chairperson said she was “deeply honoured” by the confidence her fellow Nigerian lawyers had shown in her. She is a partner at Sunesis DLP, a Lagos-headquartered commercial and dispute resolution law firm.Â
“The mandate you have given is not one I take lightly,” she said earlier in July, noting that the NBA Lagos Branch has not just elected a Chair, but given life to a vision. “A vision of a Bar where every lawyer, regardless of age, gender, background, or practice area — feels seen, heard, and supported. A Bar that stands tall in dignity, bold in advocacy, and unwavering in professional excellence.”
“Congratulations to Uchenna Ogunedo Akingbade on this historic achievement! Her leadership will undoubtedly inspire and empower women in the legal profession.”