Lagos, Nigeria – The Nigerian Bar Association Women Forum (NBAWF) marked a significant milestone during its 5th Annual General Meeting (AGM) as Chinyere Okorocha, Immediate Past Chairperson, concluded her two-year tenure. The AGM, held with great enthusiasm and reflection, commemorated a period of notable growth, impact, and transformation within the Forum under Okorocha’s leadership.
In her final address as Chairperson, Okorocha shared her pride and emotions, acknowledging the profound journey she and her team embarked on to elevate the NBA Women Forum as a leading voice for female lawyers in Nigeria. The highlight of the event for her was the delivery of her Chairperson’s Report, which was met with a standing ovation from the audience—a gesture that underscored the respect and admiration she earned throughout her tenure.
“This moment of recognition was more than just applause,” Okorocha stated. “It was a heartfelt validation of the sleepless nights, sacrifices, and unrelenting dedication my team and I put into making sure that the NBA Women Forum not only grew but stood tall as a formidable association for female lawyers in Nigeria.”
Her report reflected on the milestones achieved during her leadership, structured around a five-point agenda that was designed to ensure lasting progress for the Forum. The agenda focused on:
- Strengthening the institution
- Building capacity
- Gaining nationwide recognition
- Promoting female leadership
- Advancing work-life balance initiatives
These pillars guided the initiatives implemented during her tenure, with each playing a critical role in fortifying the Forum’s foundation and expanding its reach. Some of the key accomplishments Okorocha highlighted include:
- Expanding the Forum’s Digital Presence: Under her leadership, the NBA Women Forum significantly enhanced its online presence and digital engagement, reaching a wider audience and creating more opportunities for female lawyers across Nigeria to connect, collaborate, and grow.
- Appointment of Esteemed Patrons: The Forum welcomed the guidance of key Patrons, whose wisdom and support have been pivotal in shaping the vision and trajectory of the organization.
- Honoring the Pioneers: The 2006 pioneer Governing Council was formally recognized for their foundational contributions to the Forum, solidifying their legacy within the NBAWF and ensuring that future generations remember the giants on whose shoulders they stand.
- Launching the Forum’s Operational Manual: A comprehensive operational manual was developed and launched to provide future leaders with a governance roadmap. This document is designed to ensure that NBAWF continues to operate smoothly and efficiently, building on the achievements of previous leadership while setting the stage for future success.
Okorocha expressed deep gratitude to the members of the immediate past Executive Council, Governing Council, and management team for their unwavering support throughout her tenure. “I am immensely grateful for the trust, collaboration, and support of the entire NBA Women Forum team,” she remarked. “Our success was not mine alone—it was a collective achievement, a testament to the power of teamwork.”
As she stepped down, Okorocha officially passed the baton to Huwaila Mohamed, the newly appointed Chairperson, and her Alternate Chairperson, Delayo Oriekun. She expressed great confidence in their ability to continue the work of advancing the Forum and driving it to even greater heights.
“I wish Huwaila Mohamed and Delayo Oriekun every success as they take the NBA Women Forum to its next phase of growth and prominence,” Okorocha said. “I have no doubt that the Forum is in capable hands, and I look forward to witnessing the remarkable strides they will make.”
The AGM served as both a celebration of past achievements and a look forward to the Forum’s bright future under new leadership. Okorocha’s tenure was marked by significant strides toward the empowerment of female lawyers, increased recognition for the Forum, and the institutionalization of processes to ensure long-term sustainability.
Okorocha concluded with heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to have led such a dynamic and impactful organization: “It has been an incredible honor to serve in this capacity. I am deeply grateful for the trust placed in me and for the support I received from every corner of the Forum. Our work is far from done, but I am confident that the future of the NBA Women Forum is brighter than ever.”
The Nigerian Bar Association Women Forum, established to champion the cause of female lawyers across Nigeria, continues to be a leading platform advocating for gender equity in the legal profession. With a new leadership team in place, the Forum is set to embark on its next chapter, building on the foundations laid by Okorocha and her team…
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