Its been nineteen years since I was called to bar in Nigeria. Nineteen years of practicing law in Nigeria. Few people are actually aware that I studied Law as a second degree. A Bachelors in English language was my first degree from Obafemi Awolowo University, Class of ‘93.

My first work experience as a Law graduate was with ‘Strachan Partners’ (a full service and highly sought after leading commercial law firm, headed by Yemi Candid-Johnson). The pay wasn’t fantastic but I had a clear perspective of what I wanted to be and I knew the value of having a good foundation and this firm was a great starting point for me. Looking back now, I must say I’m better for it.

Over the years, one of my goals was to set up my own practice but there was never enough capital for a startup. I did my research and found a few professionals who had the same vision and partnered with them. It was no use sitting on my hands waiting for sufficient funds in order to achieve my goals. Somehow I knew the longer I waited, the more far fetched my goal was going to become.

I have lived in a Lagos for over 40 years and there are a few life lessons I had to pick up along the way. Here are a few survival tips I believe every Lagosian needs to achieve some of success;
Tenacity! The world generally has become a tougher place to survive. It is really a ‘dog eat dog’ world. To achieve one’s goals you need to be more persistent and determined.
Do not be afraid to take more risks, face challenges confidently and refuse to accept NO.
One very important skill for survival is the ability to listen more and speak less. There’s a lot to learn when you use your ears more frequently than your mouth (sounds like something an elder will say yeah?)
Pray. Pray to whomever or whatever you believe in. Having belief or faith in a higher authority keeps you grounded and strengthens your core. Just knowing some higher power is guiding you and understands it all.

Having a great support system cannot be overemphasised. I have a strong family unit, good friends and a good team at work. Knowing I am loved, trusted and supported gives me a certain strength to face each day and the challenges it brings. I’d like to think I am admired by the people around me and that propels me to continue to strive confidently. I hope that I would have affected the people around me positively to the point that they become better by my positive interactions with them.