MANAGING PARTNER AND HEAD, FISCAL AND FINANCE

TAYE AWOFIRANYE

Mr. Awofiranye is the founding and managing partner of The Trusted Advisors Solicitors. He handles the day-to-day running of the firm. His operation straddles all our Advisory Units.

He previously worked with Candide Johnson and Partners where he acquired an outstanding experience in dispute resolution. He immediately after moved to Giwa-Osagie and Co and worked for four years. In 2009, he attended the University of Aberdeen, United Kingdom bagging himself an LL.M degree in Oil and Gas. Amongst his numerous experiences in the UK, one notable mention is his brief but useful experience as a contract engineering consultant in the UK.

His interest areas are Corporate and Commercial Law and Information and Communication Technology. He also has vast experience in enterprise and Investment Advisory services. Further to this, he is majorly driven by providing solutions to problems.

Education

• OBAFEMI AWOLOWO UNIVERSITY (LL. B Hons, 1999- 2005)
• NIGERIAN LAW SCHOOL (BL 2005- 2006)
• UNIVERSITY OF ABERDEEN (LL.M, 2009- 2010)

Practice Areas

• Corporate and Commercial Law
• Corporate Restructuring & Insolvency
• Information/Communication Technology Law
• Contracting
• Real Estate
• Fiscal and Finance

Membership of Professional Societies

• Nigerian Bar Association

Professional Experience

Mr. Awofiranye is passionate about transactions and he dedicated over a decade of his time in legal practice to exploring new and more effective ways of doing things. He is committed to understanding the individual needs of clients and goes the extra mile to ensure that they are met. He has been involved in many big-ticket transactions and enjoys rave reviews and feedback from clients.

• He was involved in the drafting and review of a $180 Million split turnkey contract for the expansion of a cement plant.
• He was a team member for the $50 Million asset integration transaction for a telecommunications company.
• He was a team lead for the acquisition of a flour mill in Nigeria.
• He was involved in the review of the Nigerian Gas Masterplan.
• He acted as Solicitors to the Issuer in a N60 Billion Naira debt refinancing bond issue.

PARTNER & HEAD, INTERNATIONAL DISPUTE RESOLUTION AND MARITIME

DR. FRANCIS ONI

Dr. Francis Oni holds a doctorate degree in Public International Law from the University of Durham, U.K, an LL.M in International Law of Title to Territory (International Boundary, Land & Maritime Boundaries), and has extensive experience in International Dispute Resolution, International Criminal Law and the workings of the International Criminal Court, International Humanitarian Law, International Environmental Law, International Law of the Sea, International Maritime Law, International Law of Title to Territory (Land and Maritime Boundary) and Nigerian domestic laws.

Dr. Oni has over thirty-three years of experience in Public International Law advising on diverse legal frameworks and mechanisms for Nigeria and its international dispute resolution matters.

• He represented Nigeria as counsel in the case Switzerland vs Nigeria at the International Tribunal for the Law of the sea, Hamburg.
• He led the team that coordinated and reviewed the law establishing NEPAD.
• He has handled, advised and coordinated potential cases for Nigeria at the International Criminal Court on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Justice.
• He has handled numerous high profile cases and advisory on matters bordering on the Law of the Sea, International Law of Title to Territory (Land and Maritime Boundaries), Maritime Law and the Nigerian Domestic Laws.
• Part-time Lecturer, Public International Law, Department of Law, University of Durham, United Kingdom – 2006 – 2007.
• Part-time Lecturer, Law of Contract, Department of Law, University of Durham, United Kingdom, U.K.- 2005- 2006
• National Boundary Commission, The Presidency, Abuja – 1992 – 2010
• International and Comparative Law Department, Federal Ministry of Justice, Abuja – 2010 – March, 2022
• Part time lecturer – Foreign Service Academy, Lagos – 2016

Managing Associate

OLAWUNMI OJO

Olawunmi is a legal practitioner with over 10 years of commercial and advisory experience gained in private practice and in-house positions. Overseeing legal, regulatory, and internal compliance, governance processes, transaction advisory, and dispute management.  She has helped Businesses and Companies in the pharmaceutical, oil and gas, fintech start-ups, real estate, and finance industries mitigate their Legal risk with her professional expertise in Legal Secretarial services.

Olawunmi is a US-trained Mediator, and also a lexis Nexis certified legal researcher. She is a member of the Institute of Strategic Management, Nigeria and she is a member of the International Bar Association USA.

Olawunmi constantly seeks innovative and novel ways to solve legal issues. She is strategic in her approach and this stands her out as a legal practitioner. She joined TTA in 2021, handling corporate/commercial transactions and business development. Her core expertise includes regulatory compliance, merger and acquisition, contract drafting, contract life cycle management,  corporate restructuring, corporate governance, and business development.

Membership

• Nigerian Bar Association
• International Bar Association
• Associate, Institute of Strategic Management, Nigeria
• Member, International Franchise Association

Head of People, Culture and Admin

Mrs. Damilola Abifarin

HEAD, DISPUTE MANAGEMENT AND RESOLUTION

GODWIN ETIM

Godwin has over 25 years’ experience and working knowledge of commercial law, capital markets, real estate and probate practice, environmental law, projects and construction, as well labour, employment and industrial relations. He has excellent litigation and dispute resolution skills, and has represented individuals and corporations in the resolution of their complex and novel legal issues before arbitral tribunals and the superior courts in Nigeria with appreciable success. He is versed in the practice and procedure of courts at every level in Nigeria as well as arbitration. He regularly advises clients on employee and labour related issues and has been, since 2013, an expert contributor for Nigeria to the World Justice Project (WRP)’s Rule of Law Index on Labour and Employment.

Godwin is a member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (UK) and a Certified Project Management Professional (CPMP). He was described by Legal500 in 2017 as a “next generation lawyer” and a “recommended individual.” 

Godwin has been involved in the following projects:

• Team Member of the Joint Solicitors to the Offer in the Public Offer of shares of the then INTERCONTINENTAL BANK PLC 
• Team Lead of the Joint Solicitors to the Offer in the Public Offer of shares of AP PLC.
• Team Member of the Joint Solicitors to the Issue in the Initial Public Issue of 1st LAGOS STATE N15 BILLION REDEEMABLE BOND 
• Team Member of the Solicitors to the Issue in the Rights Issue of the then NATIONAL OIL and CHEMICAL MARKETING COMPANY LIMITED (now known as CONOIL).
• Team Member of the preferred consortium for the proposed privatization of some Federal Government Enterprises such as ALUMINIUM SMELTER COMPANY OF NIGERIA (ALSCON), OSHOGBO STEEL ROLLING MILL and NATIONAL ARTS THEATRE.
• Advised an American oil service company in respect of registration of its vessels under the Nigerian Cabotage Act.
• Advised an American oil service company in respect of registration of its employees as seafarers under the Joint Maritime Labour Industrial Council (JOMALIC) 
• Advised a South African Hotel Chain on the processes and procedures required for picketing, strikes and lock-outs in Nigeria. 
• Advised an American multinational household cleaning and consumer chemicals manufacturing company on several labour related issues regarding its Nigerian based employees.
• Successfully prosecuted a multi-million Naira debt recovery claim involving complex legal issues at the High Court of Lagos State on behalf of a foreign company against a local company and obtained judgment in the sum of Eur78,000 and US$ 394,000.
• Successfully prosecuted a monetary contract claim at the High Court of Lagos State against a foremost telecommunications company and secured judgment in the sum of over N5 Million.
• Successfully defended a multi-national aluminium company in respect of claims at the National Industrial Court of Nigeria relating to a trade dispute with 2 trade unions and secured a dismissal of all claims.
• Successfully defended a local outsourcing company in respect of an employee claim at the National Industrial Court of Nigeria involving several millions of naira and saved the company an exposure of more than N12 million.
• Successfully defended a first generation local bank at the High Court of Lagos State against a claim involving thousands of dollars by a local company and secured a dismissal of the entire claim.
• Successfully prosecuted a claim and secured judgment in the total sum of N105 million together with interest and costs at the High Court of Lagos State in favour of a local construction company against a local bank.
• Successfully defended a local beverage company in an employee claim for N10 Million for unfair dismissal at the National Industrial Court of Nigeria.
• Successfully prosecuted a N29 Million loss of terminal benefits claim at the National Industrial Court of Nigeria against an indigenous oil and gas engineering company.
• Successfully prosecuted a US$100,0000 bank guarantee claim at the High Court of Lagos State on behalf of an international courier company against a local bank.
• Successfully defended an appeal in a claim for N1 billion damages on behalf of a multinational energy company.  
• Successfully prosecuted a N9 Million debt recovery claim, together with interest and costs at the High Court of Ogun State against an indigenous mining and quarry company.

Senior Associate

Olusola Oluwafemi

ASSOCIATE

CHIAMAKA NNENA ANYANWU

Chiamaka is a member of the firm’s Employment and Labour, Corporate/Commercial, and Property Department. She regularly advises on contract-related matters, regulatory compliance, corporate restructuring, debt recovery, and other wide-ranging commercial transactions.

Chiamaka Anyanwu is a passionate and dynamic lawyer who enjoys challenging herself and taking on diverse roles that will enhance her personal and professional development.

Education

• Nigerian Law School (B.L 2019)
• University of Lagos (LL. B 2018)

Area of Interest

• Dispute Resolution
• Corporate and Commercial Law

Membership of Professional Societies

• Nigerian Bar Association
• Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators

ASSOCIATE

MUHIZ BABATUNDE ADISA

Muhiz Adisa is a member of the firm’s Lagos branch, contributing his expertise to both the ICT & Media and Conflict Management and Dispute Resolution Departments. He specializes in data protection, dispute resolution, media and telecommunications law, and regulatory compliance.

A member of the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP), Muhiz continually enhances his understanding of the intricate legal, business, and technological aspects surrounding information technology. His practice involves providing strategic counsel to clients on data privacy matters, licensing requirements, policies, and regulatory compliance within the dynamic ICT digital landscape. He also represents clients’ interests in courtrooms, demonstrating a commitment to safeguarding their legal rights.

With an impressive array of certifications and a portfolio of published articles (nationally and internationally), Muhiz brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to his work.

Muhiz is renowned for his dedication to excellence, his unceasing pursuit of knowledge, and his remarkable ability to operate with great effectiveness and efficiency, often requiring minimal supervision. His deep-seated passion for making a positive impact in the lives of others, coupled with his unswerving commitment to advancing the objectives of any organization he associates with, underscores his dedication to the legal profession as a whole.

EDUCATION

• Nigerian Law School (B.L 2019-2020)
• Ekiti State University (LL. B 2012-2018)

AREAS OF INTEREST

• ICT & Media Law
• Corporate Law Practice
• Commercial Law and Arbitration
• Civil Litigation
• Dispute Resolution
• Oil and Gas Law
• Technology Law
• Intellectual Property
• Property Law Practice

MEMBERSHIP OF PROFESSIONAL BODIES

• Associate Member, Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIARB, 2023)
• Member, International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP), 2021
• Associate Member, Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators (ICMC, 2020)
• Member, Nigerian Bar Association (2020)

ASSOCIATE

OLUFE JOHN POPOOLA

Olufe John Popoola joined The Trusted Advisors (TTA) in the year 2020 and is an Associate with our Lagos Office. He obtained his (LL.B) from Kogi State University as one of the best students and was called to the Nigerian Bar in the year 2020.

Olufe has written several articles on different areas of law. He is a certified International Arbitrator, Compliance Officer and astute Commercial Dispute Resolution Lawyer. Olufe also bagged a professional certificate from World Intellectual Property organization (WIPO) and a Legal Compliance certification from the reputable Compliance Institute For Bank and Financial Institutions.

Olufe is a highly motivated, dedicated and resourceful lawyer. He efficiently blends his innovation and analytical prowess to offer top-notch solutions to legal issues. He understands what it takes to meet the needs of clients in furtherance of the overriding vision of the Firm. His primary aim is to provide clients with optimal solutions.

ASSOCIATE

CHIAMAKA OGBONNAYA

Chiamaka is a dedicated and passionate lawyer with over two years of experience in the legal field. Her commitment to delivering exceptional legal services and a strong work ethic makes her an invaluable member of our legal team. Chiamaka has gained valuable experience throughout her legal career and has consistently delivered outstanding results for our clients. 

She works in the Firm’s Corporate/Commercial, Fiscal and Finance, Property and ICT Practice Group where she advises both local and international clients on business planning, corporate matters, contract drafting, regulation of financial institutions, mergers and acquisition transactions. Her professional interests and competence cut across other areas including Tax related transactions and finance. She is intelligent, able to learn quickly and has an analytical mind which makes her an asset to the Firm.

Education:

Nigerian Law School, Lagos Campus 2021

University of Calabar, Calabar 2019

Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators 2019

Professional Experience:

Chiamaka is passionate about Corporate Finance transactions and how it affects businesses especially startups. At TTA, she has been involved in many note worthy transactions and enjoys commendation and feedbacks from clients.

• Collaborated with teammates in advising a quasi-government on recovery of its $4,630,776 debt from its defaulting tenants and recovered ¾ of the debt.
• Advised a Nigerian finance house, on its $30,000,000 equity fund raising by reviewing the term sheet and other relevant documents.
• Advised a Nigerian Mortgage Bank on the most effective debt recovery strategy and recovered debt with gross value of over $1,157,694.
• Advised a development financial institution on the registration of the interest of its foreign shareholders with the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission.
• Advised a holding company on its external corporate restructuring technique and acquisition of the assets and liabilities of a defunct financial institution.

Professional Development:

Chiamaka is committed to continuous professional development and stays up-to-date with the latest legal developments, trends, and best practices. She is always seeking opportunities to enhance her skills and knowledge, ensuring that our clients receive the highest quality legal representation. Over the years she has engaged in the following professional development courses;

1. Fundamentals of Corporate Finance, Corporate Finance Institute
2. Energy, Corporate Finance and Project Finance, Millennials Intellectual Academy
3. Introduction to Capital Market Corporate Finance Institute  
4. Virtual Intern Program Participant White & Case Law Firm (Forage)
5. Virtual Intern Program Participant Latham & Watkins Law Firm (Forage)
6. Introduction to Tech Law, LawLexis International

Associate

Toluwani Kalaro

Toluwani is a lawyer in the firm’s Conflict Management and Dispute Resolution department. He has a keen interest in dispute resolution, data protection, and employment law. He is a member of both the Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators and the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, highlighting his dedication to effective dispute resolution. Before joining our firm, Toluwani gained experience in dispute resolution at other law firms.

A graduate of the prestigious University of Lagos, Toluwani held a leadership position as an undergraduate and was recognized as an award-winning writer in high-placement events such as the Lagos Model United Nations and the top 12 finalists in the Olumide Babalola National Essay 2021. 

Known for his energy and commitment, Toluwani is a resourceful lawyer who excels in delivering optimal and effective legal outcomes. His innovative mindset and strong analytical skills make him an invaluable member of our legal team.

Associate

Ovye Isreal

Mr. Anyuzgi is a member of the firm’s Lagos branch, contributing his expertise to both the Conflict Management and Dispute Resolution Departments as well as the Property Law Practice department. He is a seasoned specialist in dispute resolution, energy law as well as Property Law Practice. He provides sound policy advisory to clients that are active across various transactions

In addition, Mr. Anyuzgi while working with the Firm’s Litigation practice team acts for both Claimants and Defendants in professional negligence, employment disputes, and arbitration proceedings and has considerable experience in all aspects of the legal and procedural intricacies of such cases. Despite Anyuzgi’s in-depth litigation experience, he prefers and advocates for amicable settlement, when possible, therefore, he leverages his dispute experience to advise clients on the front end of matters on approaches and strategies to minimize the likelihood of even resorting to dispute.

Mr. Anyuzgi is known for his drive for excellence, and passion for knowledge, He has represented clients of all levels and demonstrated commendable advocacy skill, drafting skill as well as an excellent understanding of the procedure of Courts as well as substantive law, 

EDUCATION

• Nigerian Law School (B.L 2020-2021)
• Nasarawa State University, Keffi (LL. B 2014-2019)
• Masters of Law, University of Lagos (In view)

AREAS OF INTEREST

• Corporate Law Practice
• Commercial Law and Arbitration
• Civil Litigation
• Energy Law
• Maritime Law
• Intellectual Property
• Property Law Practice

MEMBERSHIP OF PROFESSIONAL BODIES

• Associate Member, Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators (ICMC, 2020)
• Member, Nigerian Bar Association (2021)

[email protected]

Associate

Elizabeth Oyinlola

Tunmise Oyinlola is a detail-oriented and proactive legal professional with experience in corporate and commercial practice. She specializes in legal research, proposal drafting, and writing, with a keen interest in intellectual property, corporate and commercial law, and property law. She has successfully drafted and reviewed legal documents for clients, supported regulatory compliance initiatives, and authored insightful legal articles.

Recognized for her strategic thinking, strong research abilities, and problem-solving skills, she remains dedicated to providing effective legal solutions in the dynamic and fast-paced legal environment.

Associate

Grace Eniyandunmo

Grace Eniyandunmo is an associate specializing in corporate law and property law, where she provides expert legal counsel to both individual and corporate Clients in Nigeria and outside Nigeria. Grace combines her extensive knowledge of corporate matters and property law with a keen understanding of corporate governance, mergers, acquisitions, and commercial transactions to provide top notch services to Clients.

She graduated from Osun State University, where she earned her LL.B as one of the best students in her set, laying the foundation for her legal career. She completed her legal training at the Nigerian Law School, Lagos Campus, where she was called to the Nigerian Bar.

A natural “people person,” Grace is known for her ability to connect with clients, understand their needs, and offer solutions that align with both their immediate goals and long-term interests. Grace has been part of the team that rendered top-notch legal advisories and solutions to different domestic and multinational companies on high-worth commercial transactions. Whether dealing with property disputes, conveyancing, or corporate matters, she brings a compassionate yet highly professional approach to each case.

With a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and dedication to achieving the best outcomes for her Clients, Grace is committed to continuous professional development and staying ahead of the latest trends in both property and corporate laws. 

EDUCATION.

• Nigerian Law School (B.L 2023)
• Osun State University (LL.B 2016- 2021)

AREA OF INTEREST.

Dispute Resolution

Property Law Department

Corporate Law Department

Associate

Chinaza Eneh

Chinaza is a diligent, analytical, and brilliant individual with a strong academic track record and a passion for the sustainable development of the African continent through the instrumentality of the law. He is a commercially savvy lawyer who provides expert guidance on corporate transactions and foreign participation in Nigeria, ensuring that all legal, financial, and regulatory aspects are thoroughly addressed.

Chinaza’s professional interests span corporate finance, project finance, mergers and acquisitions, and Energy law. His profile reflects an unwavering commitment to excellence both academically and professionally.

Outside law practice, Chinaza enjoys watching football and reading Christian doctrinal books. For him, however, nothing brings intense joy and satisfaction like sharing his Christian faith with other people.

EDUCATION

• Nigerian Law School, BL
• Ebonyi State University, LLB

PRACTICE AREAS

• Fiscal & Finance
• Corporate & Commercial Law

MEMBERSHIP OF PROFESSIONAL BODIES

• Nigerian Bar Association
• Nigerian Bar Association Section on Business Law

TRAINEE ASSOCIATE

ELIZABETH OLALEKAN

Elizabeth is a dedicated young lawyer with a strong presence in various legal domains, primarily focusing on Conflict management & dispute resolution, fiscal & corporate financing, and tax.

Her proactive teamwork, meticulous attention to detail, and remarkable ability to grasp complex legal matters quickly are paving the way for her to become an expert in her field. 

In addition to her legal career, Elizabeth is an avid volunteer, having contributed her time and energy to several charitable endeavors where she has made significant strides. 

Notably, she is a valued member of Nigeria Bar Association.

TRAINEE ASSOCIATE

MAUREEN ESEGIE

Maureen is an Associate at The Trusted Advisors with a distinct focus and interest in Fiscal & Finance, ICT & Media, Admiralty, Corporate & Commercial, and Employment & Labour law. 

Dedicated to providing comprehensive legal counsel, Maureen serves a diverse clientele that includes prominent corporations and esteemed organizations. 

CERTIFICATIONS

1. Associate, Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators (AICMC)
2. Member, Institute of ADR Registrars/Secretary
3. B.L, Nigerian Law School Lagos
4. LL.B, Anambra State University (now Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University) 

AWARDS

Mondaq thought leader (Spring 2023)- Finance and Banking.

PUBLICATIONS

1. Data Privacy And Protection In Nigeria’s IoT Environment
2. Effects Of Multiple And Double Taxation On Individuals And Businesses In Nigeria
3. How To Obtain A Temporary Work Permit (TWP) In Nigeria
4. Legal Procedure For Child Adoption Under The Nigerian Law
5. Remedies For Copyright/Trademark Infringement In Nigeria
6. Nigerian Copyright Act 2023: An In-Depth Overview
7. FAQS On The CBN Guidelines On Anti Money Laundering, Combating The Financing Of Terrorism And Countering Proliferation Financing
8. Naira Redesign Policy: What You Need To Know

TRAINEE ASSOCIATE

DEBORAH DADA

She is a First-Class Graduate and the Best Female Graduating Student of the Obafemi Awolowo University and also obtained a second-class Upper division from the Nigerian Law School.

She was a recipient of several awards from her LLB graduation and possesses keen interests in interest in the Corporate and Commercial areas of law particularly Intellectual Property, Media and Entertainment Law, Corporate Mergers and Acquisitions, Corporate Finance, amongst others. 

She is a member of the Nigerian Bar Association.

TRAINEE ASSOCIATE

ADEIFE OMOLUMO

Adeife Omolumo is an Associate in the firm’s Property, Corporate & Commercial, Banking, Fiscal & Finance practice. She is creative, thorough and tenacious with an insatiable drive for excellence. Her interest spans across Arbitration, Energy, Taxation, Intellectual Property, M & A and Corporate Finance.

She graduated with a Second Class (Upper Division) degree from both the Nigerian Law School and the prestigious University of Lagos. As an undergraduate, she received a number of accolades and awards reaffirming her skill in the art of advocacy, research and legal writing.

She is currently an Ambassador of the Nigerian Copyright Commission. She is an Associate of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, UK and Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators. She is a member of the Nigerian Bar Association.

Marketing and Brand Communications Manager

ADEKOYA ADEDEJI

Adekoya Adedeji is a seasoned digital marketing professional with expertise in market analysis and customer acquisition strategy, content creation, campaign strategy, copywriting, search engine marketing, search engine optimization, and ads management.

He has worked with many startups and businesses across industries ranging from fintech to law, FMCG, retail, and many more.

 
With a keen eye for detail and a focus on results, he has a proven track record of creating successful digital campaigns across a range of industries. Whether it’s developing engaging content, optimizing ad campaigns, or crafting compelling copy, he is committed to delivering outstanding results for business growth and customer acquisition.

SKILLS

Project Management · Google Ads · Online Marketing · Social Media Advertising · Market Planning · Social Media · Social Media Communications · Search Engine Optimization (SEO) · Written Communication · Programmatic Media Buying · B2C Marketing · Strategic Thinking · Marketing Communications Planning · Strategic Communications · Interpersonal Skills · Brand Awareness · Social Media Marketing · Public Relations · Copywriting · Social Media Optimization (SMO) · Search Engine Marketing (SEM) · Content Strategy · Communications Planning · Marketing Strategy · Analytical Skills · Digital Marketing

ACCOUNTANT

NGOZI GRACE VICTOR

Administrative Assistant

Awolola Mariam

Administrative Assistant

Faith Ajayi

ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER

MIRABELLE DIKE

Graphics Designer

Oluwaseyi Fabunmi

LITIGATION OFFICER

AKANINYENE MONDAY EKPO

LITIGATION OFFFICER

ODUSANYA AFOLASAYO

Litigation Officer

Ismail Yussuf Abiodun