Jennifer is the General Counsel of Rand Merchant Bank Nigeria Limited and the company secretary for the Bank’s subsidiary. She is also the Vice Chairperson of the Association of Banks' Legal Advisers and Company Secretaries in Nigeria. Jennifer shares her profile on International Women's Day.
At present, I am the General Counsel of Rand Merchant Bank Nigeria Limited and I also serve as the company secretary for the Bank’s subsidiary, RMB Nigeria Nominees Limited and its affiliate, RMB Nigeria Stockbrokers Limited.
In this role, I am responsible for the end-to-end legal obligations of the Bank and I ensure that the Bank complies with all statutes impacting it. I continuously advise on a significant number of complex commercial transactions and ensure that the Bank is adequately positioned from a legal standpoint in line with the corporate strategy of the Bank.
Prior to joining Rand Merchant Bank Nigeria Limited, I had an extensive 12 year career practicing law in the leading Nigerian corporate/commercial law firms of Perchstone & Graeys and Aluko & Oyebode, where until I made a decision to join Rand Merchant Bank Nigeria Limited, I was a Senior Associate with principal responsibility for providing advice on debt and equity capital market transactions, mergers & acquisitions, banking, regulatory compliance, divestitures, corporate restructurings etc. for the firm’s clients.
I am currently the Vice Chairperson of the Association of Banks' Legal Advisers and Company Secretaries in Nigeria.
Prior to studying at CCLS, I had practiced law broadly as a solicitor and an advocate with developing interest in Banking & Finance. Studying at CCLS brought a new perspective to my law practice by expanding my research skills, broadening my knowledge of financial markets generally with especial knowledge in capital market securities and secured financing in commercial transactions. The knowledge gained has helped me immensely to navigate my career path and to contribute meaningfully to the practice of law.
I have lots of fond memories of the relationships built during my time at CCLS with colleagues from various parts of the world, which have in some cases transcended the LLM programme. I particularly have fond memories of my flatmates at Stocks Court and the beautiful friendship that we shared.
Studying for a post graduate degree can be tough and demanding but it is important to keep your eyes on the ball at all times even when you feel like giving up. It also helps to undertake a postgraduate degree in your area of interest and to opt for modules that complement your desire for in-depth knowledge. Above all, ask for guidance when in need and explore the support provided by the student community at CCLS and Queen Mary, University of London in general.
In our various spheres of endeavour, it is important to speak up and consciously assist to ensure that the rights of women are protected particularly in the workplace. As women, we must never let anyone stereotype us and deter us from our pursuit of success and recognition on the basis of our gender. I am a firm believer that hard work and commitment will always set you apart and so my recommendation is that you continue to strive to be the best that you can be with the knowledge that there is always a place for you at the table.
There have been a number of women that have inspired me including Christine Lagarde, the President of the European Central Bank and Mrs Arunma Oteh, who was the Director General of the Securities and Exchange Commission in Nigeria, the vice president and treasurer of the World Bank and is currently the chair of the Royal African Society.
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