Oando Plc recently hosted its 2025 Legal Seminar, a 14-year initiative aimed at developing the skills of emerging legal talent in Nigeria. The seminar brought together law students from six universities, including the University of Lagos, Obafemi Awolowo University, and Lagos State University, to equip them with practical insights and market-relevant knowledge.
The event, themed ‘The 21st Century Lawyer: Keys to Building a Successful Legal Career’, featured contributions from senior practitioners in corporate law, private practice, and technology law. Discussions focused on the intersection of law, business, and industry, with an emphasis on the skills required to succeed in a rapidly changing legal landscape.
Oando’s Chief Legal Officer, Efuntomi Akpeneye, highlighted the importance of mentorship in bridging the gap between academia and commercial practice. She encouraged students to think like business partners and prioritize their clients’ needs. Other speakers, including Partner at Banwo & Ighodalo, Stella Duru, and Senior Associate at Aluko & Oyebode, Adeleresimi Adeleye, emphasized the need for professionalism, discipline, and specialized knowledge in the legal profession.
The seminar also explored the impact of artificial intelligence and digital tools on legal practice, with Partner at BOC Legal, Rotimi Ogunyemi, noting that while AI would transform certain aspects of legal work, human judgment remained critical. The event concluded with a fireside chat involving Oando’s in-house counsel and internal business partners, moderated by the Legal Advisor, Oando Trading, Isi Abulime.
The seminar reinforced Oando’s commitment to talent development and bridging the gap between legal education and professional practice. By providing a platform for students to engage with senior practitioners and industry experts, the company aims to equip the next generation of lawyers with the skills and knowledge required to succeed in a rapidly evolving legal landscape. With its focus on mentorship, operational exposure, and the transfer of institutional knowledge, the Oando Legal Seminar has established itself as a valuable resource for emerging legal talent in Nigeria.