Amanze Chinonye
Renowned Nigerian lawyer and international arbitration expert Tolu Obamuroh has been promoted to Partner at the global law firm White & Case LLP, drawing high praise from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who described the achievement as a reflection of “Nigerian competence, resilience, and global excellence.”
Obamuroh, who will assume his new role on January 1, 2026, was named among just three new partners globally in the firm’s International Arbitration Practice. He is the only Nigerian-qualified lawyer and the sole partner based in the firm’s Paris office, one of 46 White & Case offices worldwide.
In a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, President Tinubu hailed Obamuroh’s rise as a source of national pride, describing him as a shining example of Nigeria’s new generation of professionals “who continue to distinguish themselves across the world.”
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe President commended Obamuroh’s “exceptional career representing sovereigns and major corporations in high-value, cross-border disputes across the energy and infrastructure sectors,” noting that under the supervision of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of justice, he has served as a trusted adviser to the Nigerian Government in several international arbitration matters.
“Tolu’s success represents the best of Nigeria’s young professionals defined by merit, integrity, and global impact,” President Tinubu said. “His rise to partnership at one of the world’s most respected law firms stands as a powerful symbol of the Renewed Hope vision a Nigeria whose citizens lead and excel across disciplines.”
The President joined Obamuroh’s family, friends, and the wider legal community in celebrating the milestone, urging young Nigerians to draw inspiration from his journey, which, he said, “proves that with dedication, discipline, and service, young Nigerians can lead globally.”
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A Rising Force in Global Arbitration
Based in Paris, Obamuroh has built a distinguished record representing governments, multinational corporations, and state-owned enterprises in complex international arbitration cases. He has appeared before leading arbitral institutions such as the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID), the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), the London Court of International Arbitration (LCIA), and the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
He is part of the counsel team representing the Federal Republic of Nigeria in an ongoing ICSID arbitration (Case No. ARB/23/19) and has advised clients in major disputes spanning Europe, Africa, and Latin America.
Before joining White & Case, Obamuroh served as Associate General Counsel at the Lagos Court of Arbitration (LCA), where he contributed to institutional reforms and training initiatives. He holds an LL.B from Obafemi Awolowo University, a B.L from the Nigerian Law School, and an LL.M in International Law from Columbia Law School, New York.
In 2017, Obamuroh made history as the first African Co-Chair of the Young ICCA (International Council for Commercial Arbitration) a global organisation for young arbitration practitioners. Through this role and other professional engagements, he has contributed significantly to the development of arbitration and alternative dispute resolution across Africa.
President Tinubu’s message also underscored the broader significance of Obamuroh’s elevation, calling on Nigerian youth to emulate his discipline, diligence, and professional integrity. He described Obamuroh’s rise as “a powerful symbol of Nigeria’s growing reputation for world-class talent.”
With this milestone, Tolu Obamuroh not only advances his career but also raises the profile of Nigerian legal talent in global dispute-resolution circles reinforcing the message that African practitioners can lead and succeed at the highest levels internationally.
Legal analysts say his achievement strengthens Nigeria’s presence in the international arbitration arena and reflects the country’s growing reputation for producing world-class professionals who combine expertise with global impact.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
