Former NBA leaders Ikorodu hail Fashola’s elevation to bench body, cite career milestones

A group of former presidents of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ikorodu branch, have lauded the appointment of former Lagos State governor and former Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola, as a member of the Body of Benchers, describing it as a “fitting recognition of excellence, integrity and decades of selfless service”.

In a detailed letter of congratulations dated April 13, 2026, the former NBA leaders said Fashola’s elevation to the apex body responsible for the regulation of legal education and professional discipline in Nigeria was both meritorious and symbolic of his lasting impact on the legal profession.

Signatories: Dr. Nurudeen A. Ogbara (President, 2006–2008), Dr. Anthony K. Ebeh (2008–2010), SOK Chief Shillings (2012–2014) and Prince (Dr.) Habeeb A. Adetunji (2014–2016) collectively described the appointment as “one of the most exceptional in recent decades,” noting that the Corps of Benchers require individuals of proven competence, ethical strength and visionary leadership.

They noted that Fashola’s nearly three-decade career in law and governance has been marked by “ingenuity, pragmatism, discipline and a deep commitment to nation-building”, adding that his track record in several public offices distinguishes him as a worthy addition to the prestigious body.

The former presidents traced Fashola’s career path from his days as a legal professional to his role as chief of staff to the governor of Lagos State, before his rise as governor between 2007 and 2015. They credited his administration with far-reaching reforms, particularly in the justice sector, where he is said to have spearheaded a “radical transformation” in the administration of justice in Lagos State.

They also highlighted his tenure as Minister of Works and Housing from 2015 to 2023, during which he oversaw major infrastructure projects and policy initiatives aimed at improving transport networks and housing provision across the country.

According to the group, Fashola’s leadership during the Ebola outbreak in Nigeria further demonstrated his crisis management ability, noting that his contribution helped limit the spread of the virus and mitigate its broader socio-economic impact.
Intellectual contributions and public commitments

Beyond public office, the letter highlighted Fashola’s intellectual depth, referencing numerous key lectures and public presentations given over the years. These include his speech on “Duty and Citizenship: The Social Contract” at the Justice Idigbe Memorial Lecture in 2023 and his presentation on “Economic Recovery for Nigeria: Issues and Prospects” at the Egbe Amofin Oodua Conference in 2024.

They also cited his lecture titled “Ethics, Morality and the Law,” delivered in honor of Supreme Court Justice Habeeb Adewale Abiru, as well as his speech at the first annual conference of the Body of Benchers in 2025, where he examined the evolution and future of ethical standards in the legal profession.

Former NBA leaders described these engagements as evidence of Fashola’s “Solomonic and well-documented intellectual output” and his commitment to advancing legal and political discourse in Nigeria.

The letter also listed several awards received by Fashola, including the NBA Ikorodu Branch Exemplary Leadership of the Bar Award in 2008 and the Excellence in Leadership Award in 2013.

They also referenced his receipt of the International Crisis Group’s Stephen J. Solarz Award in 2015, as well as his recognition among the “100 Top Global Thinkers” by an international political organization. Further praise from global platforms such as TIME Magazine and The Economist were cited to bolster his reputation as a reform- and results-oriented leader.

Expressing confidence in his new role, the former presidents said Fashola’s “vast and varied experience, analytical insight and steadfast commitment to ethical conduct” would positively influence the Judicial Corps and strengthen Nigeria’s legal system.

They added that his appointment comes at a time when the legal profession requires individuals with “courage, integrity, patriotism and clarity of purpose” to uphold standards and inspire confidence in the justice system.

The group also took the opportunity to urge Fashola to compile his many lectures and intellectual contributions into books, stressing that such publications would serve as valuable resources for future generations.

Former NBA Ikorodu leaders concluded by expressing optimism about Fashola’s continued rise within the legal profession, stating their expectation that he will eventually become a Life Bencher and possibly President of the Body of Benchers.

They wished him success in the new role and expressed hope that his tenure would usher in “greater ethical compliance, impactful leadership and sustained progress of the legal profession in Nigeria”.