NBA Akure elects first female secretary since inception
By Boye Oyeyemi
The Nigerian Bar Association, Akure Chapter has recorded a historic milestone with the election of Dame Oluwanike Omotayo as its first female secretary since the branch was established 65 years ago.
Omotayo emerged victorious in the keenly contested election, defeating her opponent, Seye Olujimi, to secure the position and make history within the association.
The exercise also produced a new executive team led by Oju Kekemeke as Chairman, alongside John Abidoye as Vice Chairman and Justina Akeredolu as Assistant Secretary.
Other elected officers include Maria Bolorunduro-Akinrata as Treasurer, Grace-Suluka Oguntoyinbo as Financial Secretary, Gilbert Ojo-Charles as Publicity Secretary, Michael Ojimba as Social Secretary, Queen Adegoroye as Welfare Secretary and Omolayo Akintan as Provost.
Lawyers in the branch described Omotayo’s emergence as a landmark achievement, noting that it reflects the increasing participation of women in leadership positions within the legal profession.
According to members of the association, the outcome of the election represents a significant step towards greater inclusion and serves as encouragement for young female lawyers aspiring to occupy strategic positions in the bar.
A senior member of the branch said Omotayo’s victory demonstrated the confidence reposed in her by members, adding that the result reflected the support she garnered during the campaign.
Speaking after the election, Omotayo thanked members of the bar, senior colleagues, young lawyers and supporters for standing by her, describing the victory as a collective success and a mandate to serve the association diligently.
