LAGOS, Nigeria – The Society of Digital Newspaper Owners of Nigeria (SDNON) has bestowed the prestigious Legal Luminary of Excellence Award upon Prince Dapo Opeaye Esq., in recognition of his outstanding contributions and visionary leadership that have pushed boundaries within the Nigerian legal system.
The award ceremony, held in Lagos, celebrated Opeaye’s remarkable journey from his educational foundations to becoming a respected figure in Nigeria’s legal landscape. Prince Opeaye, who graduated with a Business Administration degree from Yaba College of Technology in 1997, later pursued his Law degree at the University of Lagos the same year, completing it in 2002 before being called to the Bar in 2004 as a Solicitor and Advocate of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.
“I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition from SDNON,” said Prince Dapo Opeaye during his acceptance speech. “This award is not just a personal achievement, but a spur to do more for the legal profession. It also strengthens my commitment to further enhance my relationship with the media and continue serving the legal community with dedication and excellence.”
Dr. Adeniyi Ifetayo, President of SDNON, emphasised the significance of service to the nation while presenting the award. “As President John F. Kennedy once said, ‘Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country,'” Dr. Ifetayo remarked. “Prince Opeaye exemplifies this spirit through his unwavering commitment to advancing the Nigerian legal system and his dedication to professional excellence that benefits our entire nation.”
Prince Opeaye’s professional credentials are extensive, including membership in the Nigerian Bar Association (Premier Branch, Lagos), Fellowship of the Chartered Institute of Loan & Risk Management of Nigeria, Fellowship of the Institute of Management Consultants (IMC-Nigeria), and membership of the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria. He holds a Master’s degree in Law from the University of Lagos and is a Certified Management Specialist from London Graduate School.
In 2003, Opeaye established Dapo Opeaye & Co. (Barristers and Solicitors), located at 2nd Floor, Suite 4, 23 Hawley Street, Off Igbosere Road, Lagos Island, Lagos. As Managing Partner, he leads a team of accomplished associates, including Olakunle Afolabi Esq., Damola Adenuga Esq., and Adepeju Adekoya Esq. The firm has built a reputation for excellence in both the Nigerian and English legal systems.
The law firm has established itself as a moderately sized practice offering bespoke services across multiple legal specialisations. These include company secretarial services, property transactions, government lease renewals, mortgage registration, debt recovery, legal opinions, and due diligence services. The firm’s extensive experience spans both domestic and international legal matters, supported by consulting partnerships with Ms. Bukola Ayoola, Mr. Olufemi Osibanjo, and Prince Adedamola Aderemi.
“We have always guaranteed our clients qualitative, skilled and professional legal services,” the firm states in its practice overview. “Our client care and information observance, our excellent contacts and our variety of experience make us indispensable to the quest for growth and enhancement of our clients’ fortunes.”
The award presentation ceremony was attended by notable figures including Barr. Olakunle Afolabi, Dr. Adeniyi Ifetayo (SDNON President), General Secretary Seunmanuel Faleye, PRO Kanyinulia Okeke, Angela Davies, Iyabo Aina, and other members of the SDNON delegation.
The Legal Luminary of Excellence Award represents SDNON’s commitment to recognising individuals who have made significant contributions to Nigeria’s legal profession through innovation, leadership, and unwavering dedication to justice and professional excellence.
Prince Dapo Opeaye’s recognition underscores the importance of visionary leadership in advancing Nigeria’s legal system and serves as an inspiration for emerging legal practitioners across the country.
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.
