Olawale Fapohunda, Founder, Emmanuella and Olawale Practice (E&O Practice)
Every journey begins with a spark, a moment that sets the course for a lifetime. For some, it’s a simple dream; for others, it’s the desire to leave a lasting impact. In the bustling streets of Lagos, amidst the dynamic rhythm of Nigeria’s legal and business sectors, a young man found his purpose—not just in the books of law but in the pursuit of justice and excellence.
Olawale Fapohunda, Founder of Emmanuella and Olawale Practice (E&O Practice), is a man whose relentless drive to push boundaries has transformed him from a dedicated lawyer into a pioneering entrepreneur, reshaping the future of legal practice in Nigeria.
A Childhood Steeped in Debate and Advocacy
Olawale’s passion for law was ignited early in his childhood, where he excelled as a debater. His talent for argumentation and persuasion did not go unnoticed, with teachers often predicting a bright future for him as a lawyer. Yet, it wasn’t just his debating prowess that inspired him. Growing up during Nigeria’s military regime, he was influenced by the political turmoil and the human rights activists who fought for democracy. Among them was the late Chief Gani Fawehinmi, a legal titan whose fearless advocacy planted the seed for Olawale’s pursuit of a legal career.
“I grew up during a period where military rule was the norm, and there was no democratically elected government,” Olawale recalls. “Reading about the impact that lawyers made in advocating for democratic rule inspired me to study law.”
While his initial fascination with law stemmed from a desire to defend the oppressed, his exposure to commercial and criminal law broadened his ambitions. After graduating from the University of Lagos, he interned at top law firms, where he saw the vast possibilities within the legal profession. This blend of advocacy and commercial practice would shape the trajectory of his legal career.
The Birth of E&O Practice
E&O Practice, the law firm Olawale co-founded with his wife Emmanuella, has grown into one of Nigeria’s leading full-service law firms. Emmanuella, also a trained lawyer, focuses on management and corporate legal work, reflecting the dynamic partnership between them. Together, they’ve built a legal institution that balances pro bono services for the less privileged with high-profile commercial and litigation cases.
“My idea of a lawyer growing up was that of a human rights activist and social crusader, fighting for the oppressed,” Olawale says. “But after being exposed to other areas of legal practice, I realized law goes beyond activism. At E&O, we combine both – offering pro bono services while also engaging in commercial law.”
This balanced approach has enabled the firm to thrive while staying true to Olawale’s roots in advocacy. Today, E&O Practice stands out not only for its legal expertise but also for its commitment to social justice. Through their pro bono work, the firm provides legal services to those who cannot afford representation, ensuring that access to justice is available to all, regardless of financial standing.
Resilience: A Key to Success
Resilience has been a cornerstone of Olawale’s success. Like any entrepreneur, he has faced significant challenges, particularly in Nigeria’s legal system, which is often plagued by delays and inefficiencies. “One of the biggest obstacles in legal practice here is the judiciary’s slow pace, which can erode clients’ confidence in the legal process,” Olawale admits. Despite this, he has remained steadfast, leveraging alternative dispute-resolution mechanisms to navigate these challenges.
Beyond law, Olawale’s business ventures in insurance, oil and gas, and hospitality have also presented hurdles, particularly during economic downturns. Yet, he emphasizes the importance of optimism and perseverance. “In business, there are always setbacks. But the key is to remain optimistic, focused on your goals, and work tirelessly towards them,” he says.
Balancing Professional and Personal Life
As a successful lawyer and entrepreneur, Olawale understands the importance of work-life balance, especially demanding industries as law and business. He makes it a point to carve out time for his family, ensuring that despite his busy schedule, he remains present for his wife and children.
“Creating time for yourself and your family is crucial,” Olawale advises. “I ensure that whenever I am home, particularly on weekends, I spend quality time with my kids. It’s essential for both physical and mental health.”
For young professionals entering the legal industry, Olawale emphasizes the need for hard work, dedication, and a clear sense of direction. He advises aspiring lawyers to identify the areas of law that truly interest them while remaining open to entrepreneurial opportunities outside of traditional legal practice.
Leadership and Innovation at E&O Practice
Olawale’s leadership style at E&O Practice reflects his commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a collaborative environment. Recognizing that leading a law firm requires more than just legal expertise, he has implemented innovative practices to ensure the growth and motivation of his team. One such initiative is the weekly knowledge-sharing sessions, where lawyers present and discuss various legal principles, encouraging continuous learning and development.
“Leadership is key in running a law firm,” he explains. “You need to motivate your team, respect them as professionals, and encourage continuous learning. It’s about creating an environment where everyone feels valued and is constantly improving.”
The Future of Nigeria’s Legal Landscape
As Nigeria continues to develop, so does its legal landscape. Olawale sees immense opportunities in areas such as natural resource management, emerging industries, and the continued evolution of the judiciary. While Nigeria’s legal system draws heavily from its colonial British roots, he believes that the country is poised for growth, particularly in sectors like energy and technology.
“There’s a lot of potential in Nigeria because it’s an emerging market,” he says. “Lawyers here have a significant role to play in developing legal frameworks for these emerging industries and interpreting the law to support business growth.”
Olawale Fapohunda’s story is a powerful reminder that success is built on vision, resilience, and a commitment to making a difference. By blending his passion for justice with entrepreneurship, he has created a legal practice that not only thrives but also uplifts those in need. His journey continues to inspire, showing that with hard work and dedication, it’s possible to achieve great things while staying true to your values.