‘Every Lawyer Should Focus on a Particular Area of Law’
‘Every Lawyer Should Focus on a Particular Area of Law’
My name is Perenami Momodu. I am a Senior Associate in the Dispute Resolution Practice Group at AELEX. I was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2009. I obtained my LL.M from the University of London in 2013. I also have a Post Graduate Certificate in International Business Law and a Diploma in International Environmental & Natural Resources Law, both from the University of London.
Over the course of my career, I have handled high stake commercial disputes, particularly relating to privatisation, energy, foreign investments, construction and insolvency.
I am a member of the International Bar Association, the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, UK (Nigeria Branch), the Business Recovery & Insolvency Practitioners Association of Nigeria (BRIPAN), and the International Association of Restructuring, Insolvency & Bankruptcy Professionals (INSOL International).
I have recently been invited by INSOL International and The World Bank Group, to be a member of the Organising Committee for the ninth African Round Table Meeting, to be held later this year. I am a wife and a mother of one.
Have you had any challenges in your career as a Lawyer, and if so, what were your main challenges?
There are certain factors which are peculiar to this jurisdiction, and having to explain these factors to clients (especially foreign clients) can be challenging. For instance, having to explain, that it could take at least two years to have a matter determined in court (in view of the congested court dockets or other reasons), is embarrassing. Also, the length of time or the delay, could affect the quality of the evidence in the matter. Our judicial system, definitely needs reform that will ensure that court matters are expeditiously concluded.
A particularly challenging period for me, was when I was undergoing my LL.M programme, as an external student of the University of London. It was challenging because, I was working and studying at the same time. I had work obligations that had to be met, and I also had to study extensively. At the time, it felt like I carried the weight of the world on my shoulders! Ultimately I was able to balance both obligations effectively, and I graduated with Merit. The sense of fulfilment and achievement that this gave me, cannot be quantified. Also, with this achievement, I have been able to pass a message to other aspiring Lawyers, that with determination, hard work and prayer, every challenge can be overcome. What was your worst day as a Lawyer? I have had bad days, but I cannot recall any memorable one.
What was your most memorable experience as a Lawyer?
As a Lawyer whose core practice group within AELEX is Dispute Resolution, I have had to make sound arguments in courts or tribunals against Senior Advocates of Nigeria and very senior Lawyers. Each of those experiences have been memorable.
I am part of a team assisting with the review of the insolvency provisions of a draft Companies Bill. This is also a memorable experience for me, because it gives me an opportunity to actively participate in the development of the law based on my practical experiences as an insolvency practitioner.
Who has been most influential in your life?
It might sound cliché, but my mother, Mrs Idowu Abah, has been the most influential person in my life. At a young age, she taught me that as a woman, the yardsticks or parameters for my success could be determined by the society, but it was left to me to break every glass ceiling. For me, the values that she instilled in me, have been my driving force.
Professionally, Mrs Funke Adekoya, SAN, Mr. Adedapo Tunde-Olowu and Mr. Olanipekun Orewale, have been very influential in my career for different reasons. From Mrs Adekoya, SAN, I have learnt the importance of strong work ethics and integrity. From Mr. Tunde-Olowu, I have learnt the value in delivering quality and thorough work. Mr. Orewale has taught me that the knowledge of the law, will give me an advantage at all times. From these people, I have obtained valuable knowledge, which impacts on my quality as a Lawyer, and which have significantly enhanced my growth in the profession.
My husband, Mr. Gbolade Momodu, has also been very influential on me, as he constantly encourages me to be better, and is very supportive of my aspirations.
Why did you become a Lawyer? I had watched too many movies and read too many books detailing “court room theatrics”! I felt deflated during my Law School Court Attachment, when I found that the “court room theatrics” in the books and movies, were exaggerated. However, not deflated enough to stop me from pursuing a career in law!
What would be your advice to anyone wanting a career in Law?
Passing the Bar exams, is not enough! Striving for personal development at all times, is fundamental. There are so many Lawyers who pass the Bar exams each year, so it will be beneficial to set yourself apart, by ensuring that you are one step ahead.
It is also important, to focus on a particular area of law, and develop expertise in that area. Some of the most admirable Lawyers, are those with expertise in specific areas of law.
If you had not become a Lawyer, what career would you have chosen?
I have always wanted to be a Lawyer. If I had to choose another career, I would have been a Quantity Surveyor like my late Father – Chief Ranami Abah. I really looked up to him, and would have enjoyed following in his footsteps.
Where do you see yourself in ten years? I see myself at the top of my career, being actively involved in the development of the law and policies. Certainly breaking glass ceilings!