Nigeria's First Female Law Professor, Jadesola Akande, Legacy Celebrated at NIALS Lecture

The Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS) recently hosted its Annual Memorial Lecture, a fitting tribute to the monumental legacy of Professor Jadesola Akande. As Nigeria's first female Professor of Law and the first female Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University, her impact resonates deeply within our nation's academic, legal, and democratic spheres. This event, attended by esteemed scholars and legal practitioners, served not only to remember her but to underscore the enduring relevance of her work.

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a trailblazer, whose influence on constitutional law and women’s rights advocacy remains unparalleled.

Professor Akande was a true trailblazer, whose scholarly contributions to constitutional law, family law, and gender studies have profoundly shaped legal discourse in Nigeria. More than just an academic, she was a fierce advocate for women's rights, access to justice, and inclusive governance. Her pioneering spirit broke barriers, paving the way for future generations of women in law and leadership. The discussions at the NIALS lecture highlighted how her foundational work in constitutionalism and the rule of law continues to provide a vital framework for Nigeria's ongoing democratic journey.

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her emergence as Nigeria’s first female Professor of Law in 1981, and later as the first female Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University, marked a turning point in the nation’s academic and legal history.

While international coverage might focus on legal reforms or political developments, the legacy of figures like Professor Akande represents the bedrock of our institutional strength. Her emphasis on robust institutions, adherence to the rule of law, and the critical need for women's participation in leadership are not abstract ideals; they are essential conditions for Nigeria's sustainable development. From our vantage point at ThisDay, celebrating her life and work is a reminder of the intellectual giants who have shaped our legal landscape and continue to inspire progress towards a more just and equitable society.

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her ideals remain relevant to Nigeria’s current democratic journey, urging stronger institutions, strict adherence to the rule of law, and greater participation of women in leadership positions, as necessary conditions for sustainable national development.