Aluko & Oyebode, one of Nigeria’s foremost full-service law firms, has announced a series of pivotal leadership changes that reinforce its legacy of excellence and deepen its bench strength as it positions for the future of legal practice.

After four impactful years at the helm, Kofo Dosekun has stepped down as Chairman. The first woman to hold the role in the firm’s history, Kofo’s tenure was marked by transformative leadership, strategic expansion of key practice areas, and a deepening of the firm’s reputation for diversity and innovation. A trailblazer in Nigeria’s legal sector, she was instrumental in building the firm’s Corporate Commercial and Banking & Finance practices—contributions that have helped solidify Aluko & Oyebode’s standing as a market leader.

While stepping down from her leadership role, Kofo will remain with the firm as Of Counsel, working alongside Founding Partner Gbenga Oyebode. Her continued presence in the firm affirms its commitment to leveraging institutional wisdom while embracing forward-looking leadership. Recognised as an Eminent Practitioner in Chambers Global 2025, Kofo remains a respected voice in the legal profession.

Reflecting on her transition, she noted:

“It has been an honour to help shape the growth of Aluko & Oyebode and to contribute to the firm’s reputation as Nigeria’s leading law firm. I look forward to supporting the new leadership team as they take the firm to new heights—driven by excellence, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to our clients.”

Stepping into the role of Chairman is Olubunmi Fayokun, a distinguished Senior Partner with four decades of experience advising some of the most significant players in Nigeria’s corporate and financial sectors. Fayokun’s track record includes pioneering work on landmark transactions such as Nigeria’s first Additional Tier 1 Eurobond issuance, the demutualisation of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (now NGX), and Diageo’s recent divestment from Guinness Nigeria Plc.

Widely regarded as a market leader, she has been recognised in the Legal500 Hall of Fame and the IFLR1000 Women Dealmakers Hall of Fame. Her appointment underscores the firm’s emphasis on deep experience, integrity, and a strategic vision.

“We are not just building on a strong legacy—we are shaping the future of legal practice in Nigeria,” Olubunmi said. “With a deep bench of talent and a relentless focus on excellence, we will continue to deliver bold solutions and enduring value to our clients across industries and borders.”

In a further development, Reginald Udom will conclude his tenure as Co-Managing Partner on 1 September 2025 after two successful terms. During his leadership, the firm expanded its global reach, earned international accolades, and consolidated its place among Africa’s elite legal service providers. He will remain an active member of the firm’s Board, continuing to contribute at the strategic level.

The firm has named Adeolu Idowu as Reginald’s successor. With nearly 30 years of experience, Adeolu brings robust expertise across Private Wealth, Telecommunications, Energy, ESG, and Regulatory Compliance. She joins current Co-Managing Partner, Joke Aliu, forming a balanced and forward-looking executive team poised to guide the firm into its next growth phase.

Founding Partner Gbenga Oyebode described the appointments as a testament to the firm’s culture of meritocracy and long-term vision:

“These appointments reflect our strong values of meritocracy, strategic foresight, and a commitment to developing world-class leaders from within. With Olubunmi, Adeolu, and Joke at the helm, Aluko & Oyebode is ideally positioned to lead the next era of legal practice in Nigeria and beyond.”

A Legacy of Excellence, A Future of Innovation

With over three decades of experience, Aluko & Oyebode has earned a reputation as a trusted advisor to multinational corporations, financial institutions, government entities, and global investors. The firm’s full-service capabilities span dispute resolution, banking and finance, corporate commercial law, energy, capital markets, and more.

Its affiliation with the Africa Legal Network (ALN), a pan-African alliance of top-tier law firms operating in 15 jurisdictions, ensures seamless cross-border legal support for clients operating across the continent.

As it enters this new chapter, Aluko & Oyebode remains focused on providing cutting-edge legal solutions grounded in deep sectoral insight, strong client relationships, and a commitment to shaping the future of law in Africa.