In an illustrious evening filled with reflection, admiration, and a celebration of legal excellence, Lagos bore witness to a grand gathering marking the 75th birthday of the distinguished senior maritime lawyer, Mr. Chidi Ilogu, SAN. The event, held on Thursday, 28th November 2024, at Victoria Island, also commemorated the 25th anniversary of his esteemed law firm, Foundation Chambers.
This milestone brought together a constellation of legal luminaries, esteemed judges, and prominent stakeholders from the maritime industry, creating an atmosphere that was both festive and profound.
Among the dignitaries present were some of the most revered names in the legal and maritime sectors. Notable attendees included the Chairman of the Seaport Terminal Operators Association of Nigeria (STOAN), Princess Vicky Haastrup; retired Justice of the Supreme Court, Justice Bode Rhodes-Vivour, and his wife Adedoyin; and the former President of the Nigeria Maritime Law Association (NMLA), Barr. Louis Mbanefo SAN. Each person present brought their unique accolades and respect to the occasion, speaking volumes of Mr. Ilogu’s profound influence and legacy.
Throughout the evening, speakers took to the stage to extol the virtues of Mr. Ilogu and his unparalleled contributions to maritime law. Barr. Louis Mbanefo SAN, a long-time colleague, painted a portrait of a man deeply committed to his vocation. He reminisced about the landmark projects they had undertaken together, including the drafting of the Nigerian Shipping Act and the establishment of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA). Barr. Mbanefo hailed Foundation Chambers as a bastion of maritime law excellence in Nigeria.
The pinnacle of the celebration was the unveiling of Mr. Ilogu’s latest literary contribution, “Beyond the Horizon in Maritime and Arbitration Practice.” This book, a collection of essays, delves into the intricacies of maritime law and showcases five decades of Mr. Ilogu’s stellar legal practice.
Prof. Adewale Olawoyin SAN of the University of Lagos, in his review, commended the book for its comprehensive coverage of topics such as maritime law, taxation, the judicial sale of ships, regulatory authorities, royalties, arbitration, alternative dispute resolution, and the integration of artificial intelligence in legal practice.
Princess Vicky Haastrup lauded Mr. Ilogu as a kind-hearted, selfless, and dependable individual, whose dedication to helping others is unmatched. Her heartfelt prayer for many more fulfilling years for Mr. Ilogu was a sentiment echoed by all present.
Mrs. Ezinwa Okoroafor, the first Managing Partner of Foundation Chambers, expressed her gratitude for Mr. Ilogu’s mentorship.
“With him, there are no shortcuts. He taught us to be fair in preparing agreement dealings. He is a leader and teacher,” she said, encapsulating the essence of his guidance.
Jean Chiazor Anishere SAN, former President of the Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria, highlighted Ilogu’s invaluable lessons on international conventions and treaties. She remarked on his calm demeanor and willingness to mentor young maritime lawyers, urging him to continue imparting his vast knowledge.
In his vote of thanks, Mr. Chidi Ilogu SAN expressed his heartfelt appreciation to all who attended the celebration. He wished them longevity and fulfillment, much like the grace he has enjoyed throughout his remarkable career.
A significant highlight of the evening was the induction of three new partners into Foundation Chambers, namely Mojisola Jaiye-Gbenle, Adedamola Kikiowo, and Tolulope Adebayo. This induction symbolised the firm’s commitment to fostering new talent and ensuring the legacy of excellence continues.
Reflecting on his journey, Mr. Chidi Ilogu shared, “Each step has been a testament to perseverance and passion. I am honored by the kind words and the presence of so many esteemed colleagues and friends. Here’s to many more years of advancing maritime law and justice together.”
The event was not just a celebration of a birthday and an anniversary, but a tribute to a life dedicated to the pursuit of legal excellence and the betterment of the maritime industry. It was a night where the past, present, and future of maritime law in Nigeria converged, wrapped in gratitude and hope.
For Mr. Chidi Ilogu SAN, the horizon stretches ever wider, promising continued contributions to law, mentorship, and industry leadership.
