The management and staff of one of the leading commercial legal firms in Nigeria, Babalakin & Co. , on Friday, October 10, held a special ceremony in honour Oluseun Awonuga, following his elevation to the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).
The event, held at the firm’s Lagos headquarters, attracted partners, associates, and well-wishers who described Awonuga’s achievement as a milestone in the firm’s tradition of excellence.
In his welcome address, the firm’s Managing Partner, Mr. Wale Akoni, SAN, expressed deep pride in Awonuga’s accomplishment.
He said, “Today, we celebrate not just an individual achievement but a testament to dedication, perseverance, and the spirit of mentorship that defines our firm.”
Akoni also described the new SAN as a lawyer of “outstanding intellect, humility, and professional discipline.”
Speaking at the event, the Founder and Principal Partner, Dr. Wale Babalakin, SAN, congratulated Awonuga on the feat, saying that the firm takes pride in nurturing talent that rises to national and international prominence.
He said, “Our firm has always been a fertile ground for excellence. With Awonuga’s elevation, we have now produced over 10 Senior Advocates of Nigeria, and currently, five SANs are active members of this firm.”
Babalakin added that Awonuga’s elevation reinforces the firm’s legacy of contributing to the growth of Nigeria’s legal profession.
He said, “ This recognition is not just about individual brilliance; it reflects our shared culture of hard work, integrity, and devotion to justice.”
Responding, the celebrant, Mr. Oluseun Awonuga, SAN, expressed gratitude to his mentors and colleagues for their support.
He said, “I am deeply honoured to have walked this journey surrounded by such inspiring minds. This rank is a call to greater responsibility, and I remain committed to upholding the highest ideals of the legal profession.”
Several partners and associates described Awonuga as a lawyer of exceptional diligence and composure. One associate said, “His rise to the Inner Bar is richly deserved — he’s a mentor to many of us.”
The event ended with applause and a toast to the new Senior Advocate, marking yet another proud chapter in Babalakin & Co.’s distinguished history of producing leaders in the Nigerian legal community.
