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The ESQ Nigerian Legal Awards 2025 is set to return on November 9 at the Landmark Event Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, as the premier platform recognising outstanding achievement, innovation, and leadership within Nigeria’s legal profession. Now in its 12th edition, the Awards have become the benchmark for honouring lawyers and legal institutions whose work significantly influences business growth, governance, and economic progress across the country. Lere Fashola, Founder and Publisher of ESQ Legal Blitz and Convener of the Awards, highlighted the event’s unique role, saying: “The Nigerian Legal Awards celebrates the important contribution of lawyers to businesses — they are the unseen architects of growth, governance, and trust in our economy. ”This year’s ceremony promises a stellar lineup of honourees across individual and institutional categories, including some of Nigeria’s most respected legal and government figures. “Special recognitions will be given to Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN), the former Minister of Works; Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment; Festus Keyamo (SAN), Minister of Aviation; and Kayode Ajulo, Attorney General of Ondo State. “Alhaji Hamed Raji (SAN), will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award, while Oyinkan Badejo-Okusanya (SAN), will be honoured as Legal Amazon of the Year, celebrating exceptional female lawyers. “Institutional awardees include top players like the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), Zenith Bank Plc, and Nigerian Breweries Plc.” The Awards are structured around three core pillars designed to cover the broad spectrum of legal practice and influence. Law Firm Practice Area Categories focus on law firms and practice groups that have demonstrated exceptional skills and innovative legal solutions directly impacting client business success over the last 18 months. These deal-driven awards reflect professional excellence and client impact based on measurable results. Nigerian Rising Stars: 40 Under 40 spotlights young legal professionals under 40 who show remarkable leadership, intellectual rigour, and promise early in their careers. This category nurtures the next generation of legal leaders across private and public sectors. Editors’ Merit Awards honour distinguished individuals for their lifelong contributions to justice, governance, and national development, emphasising the transformative role of law in Nigeria’s economic and social progress. Read Also: Dear Mr. President, please do not let this 15% import tariff punish Nigerians again Fashola added: “The prestigious trophies themselves carry significant symbolism. The bespoke crystal trophies for law firm categories depict a blindfolded woman in traditional African attire holding a sword and scales, symbolising justice, integrity, and cultural pride. “The Editors’ Merit Award trophy features a sage figure representing wisdom and the fusion of tradition with modern innovation. “The Nigerian Legal Awards is supported by a rigorous and transparent judging process led by a panel of distinguished local and international legal experts, including Kamal Shah (Chair), Noella Lubano, Foluke Akinmoladun, and others from prominent global law firms and Nigerian institutions. “This guarantees an impartial and merit-driven selection that reflects the highest standards in African legal practice. “The Awards set the stage for healthy competition that drives legal innovation and ethics. “They celebrate the role lawyers play as architects of stability, growth, and justice in Nigeria’s expanding economy, highlighting sectors like oil and gas, telecommunications, finance, and real estate.” The Nigerian Legal Awards 2025 continues to honour those shaping Nigeria’s future through legal excellence, fostering a culture of innovation, professionalism, and leadership within the country’s legal landscape.
