Summary:
In a historic move for Nigeria’s legal sector, President Tinubu has appointed Dr. Olugbemisola Titilayo Odusote as the first female Director-General of the Nigerian Law School, marking a new era for the prestigious institution starting January 2026.
A new chapter has opened for legal education in Nigeria as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially sanctioned the appointment of Dr. Olugbemisola Titilayo Odusote to lead the Nigerian Law School. This strategic appointment marks a significant milestone, shattering a 64-year glass ceiling to make Dr. Odusote the first female Director-General since the institution’s inception in 1962.
According to a statement released by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, this pivotal transition takes effect from January 10, 2026. Dr. Odusote will assume the mantle of leadership for a four-year tenure, succeeding Professor Isa Hayatu Chiroma, who concludes a notable eight-year service on January 9.
A Distinguished Legal Scholar
Currently serving as the Deputy Director-General and Head of the Lagos Campus, Dr. Odusote brings over two decades of institutional experience to the role. Her journey with the Law School began in 2001 as a lecturer, rising through the ranks to hold critical positions including Director of Academics and Head of Campus.
Her academic pedigree is equally impressive. An alumnus of Obafemi Awolowo University, she was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1988 and holds a Ph.D. in Law from the University of Surrey, UK. Her expertise spans Company Law, Commercial Law, and Public Law, with a strong focus on the administration of justice.
A New Vision for Legal Training
In her new capacity, the incoming Director-General is tasked with overseeing the academic and administrative architecture of the institution across all campuses nationwide. She will act as the primary bridge between the school and key regulatory bodies, including the Council of Legal Education, the Body of Benchers, and the Nigerian Bar Association.
The Presidency highlighted her extensive contributions to legal scholarship, noting her publication record in reputable international journals and her role as a visiting scholar at Nottingham Trent University. This appointment not only recognizes her dedication but also signals the administration’s commitment to placing qualified women in critical federal leadership roles.