Osuntuyi & Tokan-Lawal Law (OTL Law) was ably represented by our Associates, Odunayo Akinsanya and Ademola Ajayi, at the E-Lawyer Nigeria Career Fair Festival themed “AI & the Future of Work” on 9 September 2026.
The event brought together legal practitioners, business leaders, career coaches, psychologists, technology professionals, founders, and aspiring lawyers to discuss the changing nature of work and the skills required to remain relevant in an increasingly technology-driven world.
The event commenced with a welcome address by Gideon Edem, co-founder of E-Lawyer Nigeria, followed by a keynote and a series of expert-led sessions.
Keynote: Essential Skills Needed for a Thriving Career in a Tech Era
The keynote was delivered by Mr. Altaf Kara, a UK-qualified solicitor and business coach. He emphasised that legal careers are not linear noting that young lawyers’ must remain adaptable. He highlighted the importance of mastering the law, developing digital fluency, maintaining strong ethical standards, building human skills, commercial awareness and client judgement, and demonstrating practical work.
On AI, he stressed that it will replace some roles while creating new ones but encouraged lawyers to focus on solving problems. Lawyers should search, verify and apply information while using sound legal analysis and asking strategic, client-focused questions.
Segment One: Building Your Global Career
The first session, moderated by Sopuruchi Rufus, was a fireside chat focused on building a global career through adaptability, AI readiness and confidence. Panelist, Rebecca Lewis, emphasised adaptability, initiative and problem-solving; Folake Sansanya encouraged young professionals to step outside their comfort zones, take action, embrace mistakes and pivot; while Asher Craig highlighted the importance of overcoming fear, building confidence and being bold in creating opportunities. Overall, the session encouraged young lawyers to improve, build, grow and actively create opportunities for themselves.
Segment Two: Reinventing Yourself in a Changing World
This session was moderated by Iruoghene Wonders, with Ajibola Salvador, Karen Emelu, and Stanley Alieke as panelists. The panel emphasised adaptability, continuous development, mentorship, patience and intentional career building. Key lessons included avoiding premature decisions, resisting trends, developing relevant skills, and building competence alongside professional visibility and a strong network. Participants were encouraged to be intentional about their professional identity and actively create opportunities for growth.
Career Chat: Navigating Law, Legal Education and Media
Nimi Edimeh in conversation with Timi Agbaje explored his multifaceted career across law, legal education and media. The session highlighted the importance of adaptability and developing multiple competencies, demonstrating that lawyers can pursue diverse career paths and apply their legal expertise beyond traditional legal practice.
Founders’ Fireside Chat
The event concluded with a discussion on the realities of entrepreneurship and leadership, highlighting the need for patience, persistence and avoiding the expectation of immediate results. The session reinforced key themes, particularly adaptability, calculated risk-taking, continuous learning and intentional growth.
Key Takeaways
- AI and Technology: Use technology to complement, not replace, professional competence.
- Human Skills: Communication, judgment, problem-solving and relationships remain essential.
- Career Growth: Build through mentorship, networking, visibility and adaptability.
- Mindset: Embrace change, learn from mistakes and prioritise consistent growth over quick results.