Introduction
Olumide Akpata is a renowned Nigerian lawyer and politician who has distinguished himself in various leadership roles over the years. In 2020, he was elected President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), becoming the youngest person to hold this influential position. This blog post provides an in-depth look at Olumide Akpata’s biography, tracing his early life, education, family and illustrious legal and political career.
Early Life and Education
Olumide Akpata was born on October 7, 1972 in Bendel State, Nigeria (now known as Edo State). He had his primary school education in Warri, Delta State and later attended the prestigious King’s College in Lagos for secondary school. After obtaining his West African School Certificate, Akpata gained admission to study Law at the University of Benin in Edo State. He graduated in 1992 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Law.
Family Background
Akpata hails from a respectable family with a strong educational background. His father was a school administrator while his mother was a teacher. He is the fourth child in a family of five siblings, comprising three brothers and two sisters. Not much is publicly known about his extended family members due to his preference for privacy on personal matters.
Marriage and Divorce
In 1996, Akpata married his long-time partner with whom he has two daughters. However, the marriage reportedly hit rocky waters over irreconcilable differences and eventually ended in divorce after 16 years together in 2012. While details of what led to the breakdown are scarce, it was an emotional period for Akpata who is known to cherish family above all else.
Legal Career Begins
After being called to the Nigerian Bar in 1993, Akpata cut his teeth practicing law in various capacities. He started his career at Aluko & Oyebode, one of Nigeria’s leading commercial law firms. There, he gained hands-on experience in corporate and commercial law, energy and natural resources, competition law and related fields. In 1999, he joined Templars as an associate and rose to become partner, leading the firm’s corporate practice group.
Other Legal Roles
Aside from private practice, Akpata’s expertise saw him serve in numerous public roles. He was a council member at the Section on Business Law of the International Bar Association. Further, he served two terms as Secretary of the Corporate and Commercial Law Committee at the Nigerian Bar Association. Akpata also lectured at the Nigerian Law School. Throughout, he earned a reputation of excellence, diligence and commitment to client service.
Becoming NBA President
In 2020, Akpata announced his intent to contest for the esteemed position of NBA President. During the electioneering process, he campaigned vigorously on a reform agenda focused on upskilling young lawyers, technology adoption, credible elections and better welfare. In one of the closest races ever, Akpata prevailed, becoming the youngest person to head the NBA at age 48. He was hailed as a leader committed to progressive change within the legal fraternity.
Key Achievements as NBA President
Over his two-year tenure that ended in 2022, Akpata spearheaded several impactful programs. He established an NBA Endowment Fund for capacity building and the NBA Portal for online services. A special committee on police reforms was also constituted. Further, relations with international bar bodies like the International Bar Association were strengthened through collaborative events. Akpata further enhanced the financial autonomy of branches nationwide. His leadership was widely praised.
Politics Beckons
With his growing national profile, Akpata sensed a calling to public service beyond law. In 2022, he joined the Labour Party of Nigeria to run for governor of Edo State in the 2024 elections. Riding on his proven record of competence, compassion and vision, Akpata has upended the political landscape with ideas centered on youth employment, indigenous skill development, infrastructure and transparent governance. Polls indicate he is well ahead of his opponents.
Personal Life and Interests
Outside of work, Akpata is a family man devoted to his daughters. He enjoys swimming, tennis and long walks. With a keen intellect, he reads broadly on diverse topics and keeps abreast of global developments. Akpata also finds time to mentor young professionals on leadership, ethics and self-actualization. His relaxing pastimes include listening to jazz and watching documentaries. A man of faith, he lives accordingly to principles of hard work, integrity and service above self.
Awards and Recognition
Akpata’s numerous accomplishments have not gone unnoticed. He has received several awards including the Nigeria Prize for Leadership in 2021 for his visionary role in developing the legal profession. Further, he was honoured as Legal Practitioner of the Year during the 2020 ALB Africa Law Awards. King’s College old boys recognized his achievement with a Distinguished Alumni Award. With his current political activities, Akpata’s profile is scaling new heights.
Conclusion
In summarizing Olumide Akpata’s journey thus far, it is evident that he has been a consummate lawyer, activist, social reformer and now, an agent of positive change in politics. The young achiever proves that with focus, discipline and humility, one’s dreams are attainable regardless of background. Through his leadership in law and beyond, Akpata continues giving back and impacting lives. His best years are still ahead.
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