Major legal advisers/ external counsel: Banwo & Ighodalo, Stren & Blan Partners , Anaje Olumide Oke, Famsville Solicitors

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? 

My approach to managing legal aspects during periods of instability or crises includes being proactive, being pragmatic and being collaborative.

I practice proactive legal risk assessment by monitoring judicial, regulatory and legislative developments. From experience, I realise that it is critical to anticipate potential disruptions and establish robust compliance frameworks to mitigate risks. I often leverage shared experiences from the various private sector in-house counsel group platforms I belong to in order to achieve this.

Secondly, being pragmatic while being flexible is key. I ensure the legal function continues to provide pragmatic advise to the business while remaining flexible to respond quickly to emerging challenges, whether through navigating regulatory changes, or providing real-time guidance to the leadership team.

Finally, by keeping my internal stakeholders apprised of developments in the legal and compliance environment, I am able to use their feedback to develop legal strategies in alignment with the broader business strategy of the company. By fostering collaboration across various functions, I am able to introduce bespoke legal solutions aimed at supporting operational continuity. By embedding legal considerations into strategic decision-making, I help the business navigate challenges while positioning it for long-term growth and sustainability.

In your opinion, what are the main trends that are salient in your country currently ? 

Two major trends currently shaping Nigeria are the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and ongoing tax reforms.

AI is transforming various sectors, from finance to healthcare and agriculture. Businesses are leveraging AI to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance decision-making. However, this trend also raises questions about data privacy, cybersecurity, and workforce displacement, which policymakers and businesses are grappling with.

On the other hand, tax reforms are at the forefront of economic discourse. The government is actively working to expand the tax net, improve compliance, and increase revenue to address fiscal challenges. These reforms aim to create a more transparent and efficient tax system, but they also require businesses to adapt quickly to changing regulations.

Both trends are reshaping the business environment in Nigeria, offering opportunities for innovation and growth while also presenting challenges that require strategic responses.

Are there any causes, business or otherwise, you are passionate about? 

I am passionate about causes that align with both business and societal impact.

On the business front, I am invested in fostering good corporate governance, compliance, and ethical business practices. I believe these are critical for sustainable business growth. My membership of the relevant vocational institutions like the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators of Nigeria (ICSAN), Society for Corporate Governance Nigeria (SCGN) and the Nigerian Bar Association (Section on Business Law) helps me pursue and contribute to these causes.

On the societal front, I feel deeply committed to privately supporting efforts that benefit others or addresses societal challenges. This passion stems from my personal values and experiences. I feel the best way to show gratitude for one’s blessings is to pay it forward by showing kindness and generosity to the less fortunate in the society.