By Abiola Olawale
In a world grappling with complex challenges like climate, challenges including social inequality, and lack of access to justice, the role of lawyers extends far beyond the courtroom.
This was the powerful message delivered by Babatunde Irukera, immediate-past chief executive officer (CEO) and executive Vice Chairman of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), during the 2025 JBLLC Mentorship Program, which was held via Zoom App and monitored by The New Diplomat.
During the mentorship program, hosted by Managing Partner of the JBLaw Professional Corp, Johnson Babalola,
Irukera, a notable legal expert, emphasized the critical role lawyers must play in driving transformative change in today’s world.
Speaking to an audience of aspiring and seasoned legal professionals, Irukera highlighted what he described as a unique position lawyers occupy in society.
“Lawyers are not just defenders of justice; we are architects of systems that shape how societies function,” he said.
He urged attendees to view their legal expertise as a tool for addressing pressing global issues such as economic inequality, and issues arising from lack of access to justice.
Also, one of the key take-aways from Irukera’s address was the need for lawyers to adopt a proactive mindset.
Irukera who had practiced Immigration law in the United States, prior to being CEO of FCCPC, emphasized that waiting for change to happen is no longer sufficient. “The world is changing rapidly, and lawyers must lead, not follow,” he stated.
The former CEO of FCCPC pointed to examples of legal professionals who have spearheaded transformative movements, such as those advocating for environmental regulations or championing human rights reforms.
Irukera challenged the audience to identify areas where their legal expertise could address systemic gaps, whether in local communities or on a global scale.
In his concluding remarks, Irukera further stressed the importance of mentorship in this journey, noting that guidance from experienced professionals is crucial for young lawyers to navigate the complexities of impactful legal work.
“Mentorship is not just about career advice; it’s about inspiring each other to think bigger and act bolder,” he added.
The New Diplomat reports that the JBLLC is a mentorship initiative dedicated to empowering young professionals including lawyers, law students, and aspiring professionals in Nigeria.
The mentorship program is an initiative of Babalola, a certified immigration specialist lawyer, author, workplace consultant, leadership trainer, storyteller and thought leader.
He is also a prolific and engaging guest columnist with The New Diplomat digital newspaper.
His illustrious career has spanned various roles, from being an immigration consultant and licensed legal practitioner in Canada to founding partner of JBLaw Professional Corporation (practising as Topmarké Attorneys LLP), a leading law firm in Toronto.
Babalola’s professional journey also includes being a workplace consultant, a founding member of the Ontario Centre for Public Policy and Strategy (OCPPS), a global project consulting service firm and a director of 360° Consulting, a leadership training firm based in Nigeria.
