From Curiosity to Clarity: My Journey Through the BNLF Summit 2025

When I stumbled across a post about the BNLF Summit, I had a gut feeling that it would be a golden opportunity, and dare I say I was absolutely right! The event met and exceeded my expectations, and I didn’t anticipate the opportunities that would come my way through my attendance at the Summit.

The Summit spanned two incredible days on 26-27 June, kicking off with a cocktail reception hosted at the residence of the British High Commissioner. The atmosphere was elegant yet welcoming. We were addressed warmly by the High Commissioner, who highlighted the BNLF’s humble beginnings in 2001, and the significance of gathering again in a stronger, larger, and more diverse way.

Thanks to the evening cocktail reception, I had the opportunity to connect with women I have come to respect from both Nigeria and the UK, like Beverley A. Agbakoba-Onyejianya, Genevieve Wakeley-Jones, Rita Chindah, Kemi Afesojaye, Adeola Fadipe, Teniola Onabanjo, and many others. Their welcoming spirit, authenticity, and success stories made it easy for me to blend with them even though I was just a student, and made me also believe that there’s room for young lawyers like me to thrive, too.

The main event of the Summit started off on Day 2 and it was rich with insights. There were three vibrant panel sessions that unpacked the future of legal practice across borders, technology, and dispute resolution.

The first session focused on accessing international markets and building a legal brand. What stood out to me was the message that global opportunities can begin locally with visibility, credibility, and strategic collaboration. As someone still in university, this was a game-changer. It’s not about waiting to leave Nigeria to ‘go global’, it’s about showing up, doing excellent work, and letting that work speak beyond borders.

The second session on AI and cryptocurrency in legal practice reminded us that technology is not a threat but a tool. One line from the discussion that stuck with me is: “Technology is an amplifier. If you’re diligent, it will help you and if you’re lazy, it will expose you.” As a student that does research, that served as a strong call to mastery and diligence.

The third session delved into the UK-Nigeria collaboration in litigation, arbitration and ADR. I was particularly drawn to the importance of procedural understanding between jurisdictions and the value of having a subject-matter niche. Beverley A Agbakoba-Onyejianya spoke passionately about her focus on sports law and it reminded me to lean into my own areas of interest and keep working on them.

There was also a debate among young lawyers on whether young Nigerian legal professionals should pursue becoming global legal professionals rather than local experts. Though the debate didn’t have a clear winner, one perspective that stuck with me is that “working locally doesn’t mean you’re a local champion.” You can stay rooted in Nigeria and still have global relevance.

The Summit came to an end with a gala night themed “traditional attire with a touch of green.” It was a celebration of culture (both Nigerian and British), community, and good food. It was lovely seeing legal professionals with their agbada, lace, aso-oke, etc and it made the evening very enjoyable and exciting.

One of the most powerful moments was learning how the BNLF began with just five passionate lawyers in a UK basement after a conference in Abuja. Over two decades later, it has become a continental force. That journey reflects what I hope for in my own career: humble beginnings, consistency, and divine acceleration.

If I could offer one suggestion, it would be for BNLF to consider subject-specific communities within the Forum like a Sports Law hub, a Business Law circle, and so on. It would help connect people of like minds and streamline mentorship.

I left this Summit clearer, more confident, and convinced that everything I’m building is valid and that the legal profession in Africa is evolving.

BNLF reminded me that the room is not beyond reach and I just need to keep walking towards it with boldness and grace.