The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has announced the appointment of Folashade Alli, SAN, C.Arb as the 9th Chairperson of the NBA Section on Legal Practice (SLP) during its Annual General Conference held on Thursday, 28th August 2025.
With a career that spans more than 35 years in Commercial Legal Practice and International Arbitration, Folashade stands out as a trailblazer in Nigeria’s legal community. A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and a Chartered Arbitrator, she brings not only technical expertise but also an unwavering commitment to raising the bar in professional ethics and advancing legal standards.
HER DISTINGUISHED CAREER
Folashade is an esteemed member of Lincoln’s Inn, London, and holds dual qualifications to practice law in both England and Nigeria. Over the years, she has built an impressive reputation in legal practice, frequently recommended for her depth of knowledge and exceptional track record.
As a Chartered Arbitrator, she has played active roles in ad hoc and international arbitration proceedings, serving as Chairman of Arbitral Tribunals, sole arbitrator, and panel member across industries such as energy, construction, and corporate-commercial disputes. She has worked under the auspices of major arbitration institutions and frameworks, showcasing her global outlook and expertise.
LEADERSHIP AND SERVICE
Her leadership extends beyond the courtroom. She is a member of the ICC Commission on Arbitration and ADR, and the ICC Task Force on Corruption in International Arbitration. Within the NBA, she has served in multiple influential roles, including Chairman of the International Trade Law Committee (Section of Business Law), Chairman of the Law Firm Management Section on Legal Practice, and Council Member of the NBA Women’s Forum Governing Committee.
Beyond professional associations, Folashade sits on the boards of Afe Babalola University, Day Waterman College, United Way Greater Nigeria, AIFA Reading Society, and the Saint Louis College Old Girls Association, further reflecting her passion for education, community development, and philanthropy.
EXPANSIVE PROFESSIONAL CREDENTIALS
Folashade Alli’s professional portfolio is extensive. She is: A licensed and accredited Capital Markets Operator and Practitioner by the Securities and Exchange Commission Nigeria. A registered Notary Public of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. And an Approved Tutor of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (UK).
She is also a respected voice in global legal discourse, frequently speaking at international conferences, workshops, and seminars. Her written works on arbitration and intellectual property law have been widely published, and she was notably selected by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) as one of six Nigerian experts to train the Nigerian judiciary on Intellectual Property.
A LEGAL LUMINARY WITH IMPACT
Folashade Alli is celebrated not just for her credentials but for her tenacity, brilliance, and finesse in negotiation and problem-solving. Over the years, she has earned the respect of peers, clients, and institutions alike, standing out as a symbol of excellence and integrity in the Nigerian legal profession.
Her appointment as the 9th Chairperson of the NBA Section on Legal Practice underscores her dedication to strengthening the rule of law, advancing professional standards, and mentoring the next generation of lawyers.
As the legal community marks this milestone, it is clear that Folashade Alli SAN, C.Arb is poised to continue shaping the future of legal practice in Nigeria and beyond.