As a general counsel, how do you anticipate and prepare for potential legal and regulatory challenges that may arise, particularly in light of emerging technologies and evolving business landscapes?

As general counsel, we anticipate legal and regulatory challenges right from when we review our Service Level Agreements; when bills are being debated on the floor of the National Assembly and some State Assemblies where we have presence; and when these bills become law.

We also collate and draw up the organisation’s risk appetite in case a bill becomes law or when service level agreements are signed.

How have you attempted to bring the legal department closer to your business colleagues?

I bring the legal department closer to business colleagues – my internal stakeholders – by trying as much as possible to see things from their perspectives. I also move from one department to another to better understand the dynamics of the business and appreciate the thinking and perspectives of our internal stakeholders.

How do you see the general counsel role evolving in Nigeria over the next five to ten years?

I see the role of general counsel evolving greatly, especially with improvements in technology, which will help fast track the work they do. I further envision general counsel becoming main business managers and succeeding at it. They will develop to take on the role of managing directors and directors.

How important is choosing to work with external lawyers who align with your company’s values? Are you likely to reconsider what firms you work with based on this?

It is very important for us as an organisation to ensure that all third parties who work for the company aligns themselves with its values. When external counsel do not align with the company’s value, it could lead to reputational damage. Consequently, this consideration shapes our shortlist of external firms.