Chief legal counsel | MRS Oil Nigeria
Olawale Badru
Chief legal counsel | MRS Oil Nigeria
How do you approach managing legal aspects during periods of instability or crises, and how does your legal strategy align with the broader business strategy to ensure the organisation’s resilience?
Using COVID-19 as an example, my team of lawyers and I were able to manage the legal aspects during periods of instability or crisis by adopting the following approach: We collaborated with other departments within the organisation to establish a Crisis Management Team, which facilitated a coordinated response to the crisis. We identified potential legal risks associated with the crisis, such as contractual disputes, regulatory non-compliance, and reputational damage, and developed strategies to mitigate these risks. This included reviewing contracts, renegotiating contracts where necessary to ensure the organisation’s interests were protected, and ensuring regulatory compliance, among other actions. We also ensured that the legal strategy was aligned with the company’s broader business strategy, understanding the organisation’s goals, objectives, and risk tolerance. Lastly, we ensured the organisation remained compliant with relevant laws and regulations throughout the crisis, monitoring any changes and ensuring the company’s response did not violate any laws or regulations.
In your opinion, what are the main trends that are salient in your country currently (these can be legal, political, economy or business-based)?
Trends gaining traction in Nigeria include, but are not limited to, social, political, and economic factors. The country is witnessing increased political activity, with several trending topics such as defamation of character and religious discussions gaining traction. The Nigerian economy is projected to grow marginally due to sustained policy reforms, recovering oil production, and a proactive policy environment. However, the economy still faces challenges, such as high inflation, fiscal debt, and foreign exchange liquidity pressures.
Are there any causes, business or otherwise, you are passionate about?
I am most passionate about human rights advocacy and awareness, gender equality and women’s empowerment, as well as inclusion and support for marginalised communities.
Chief legal counsel | MRS Oil Nigeria