Chidera Ezenwanne is an Associate in the Dispute resolution, Energy, Arbitration, ICT and Data protection unit of the firm. She is distinguished and versatile lawyer specializing in disputes covering oil spill, customer – banker relationship, labour related matters, fundamental rights and data related issues. With a track record of successfully navigating and being a part of landmark transactions and disputes, she has established herself as a key player in the firm’s success.

As a pivotal member of the firm, she brings a unique blend of analytical prowess and deep sector knowledge, enabling her to provide strategic insights that drive results. Her expertise spans the intricacies of corporate finance in the energy and banking sectors, the evolving landscape of fintech, and the critical importance of data protection and ICT compliance.

In addition to her transactional work, Chidera, is an integral part of the firm’s dispute resolution team, where her keen analytical skills and strategic thinking contribute to favorable outcomes in complex legal matters. Her ability to navigate and resolve high stakes disputes further underscores her value to both clients and the firm.

She is committed to excellence, consistently delivering exceptional legal services that have a lasting impact on the sectors she serves.

Relevant Experience

• High-Profile Dispute Representation: Successfully represented an International Oil Company (IOC) in a ₦143 billion oil spill claim, demonstrating her ability to manage complex, high-stakes disputes. She has also represented IOC’s, Government agencies, Telecommunications companies and financial institutions across various jurisdictions in Nigeria in several disputes
• Banking Sector Excellence: Successfully defended blue-chip financial institutions in significant disputes involving breach of the banker-customer relationship.
• Telecommunications Transactions: Advised a multinational telecommunications company on a USD 30 million license acquisition, highlighting her proficiency in high-value transactions in the telecom sector.
• Energy Sector Insight: Reviewed and advised an institution on a Power Purchase Agreement and a Gas Sale and Purchase Agreement, ensuring compliance and strategic alignment in the energy sector.
• Customs and Trade Compliance: Provided crucial advice to a foreign multinational on the propriety of the Nigeria Custom Service’s insistence on specific incoterms, reflecting her deep understanding of international trade laws.
• Data Protection Audits: Conducted audits of several registered companies to ensure compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act and other relevant regulations, underscoring her expertise in data protection.
• Compliance Advisory Services: Provides ongoing compliance advisory services to multinational companies in the financial, communication, energy, manufacturing, real estate, and consumer goods sectors, ensuring their operations adhere to local and international regulations.
• Corporate Governance: Acts as company secretary to both Nigerian and foreign companies, demonstrating her comprehensive understanding of corporate governance.
• Strategic Legal Counsel: Advised a telecommunications company on strategies to preserve a multi-million dollar transaction, showcasing her strategic acumen in preserving client interests.
• Dispute Resolution: Worked with a team to facilitate the settlement of a ₦49 billion dispute among top companies in Nigeria, further solidifying her reputation as a key player in dispute resolution.

Education

• B. L, Nigerian Law School, Nigeria (Abuja Campus)
• LL. B (Honours), University of Ibadan, Nigeria (First Class)

Bars

• Barrister & Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria

Membership

• Member, Nigerian Bar Association
• Member, FinTechNGR
• Member, NBA, Section on Business Law
• Member, Young ICCA
• Member, British Nigeria Law Forum (BNLF)
• Alumni, YALI RLC

Publications 

• Regulatory Alert: Nigerian Data Protection Commission Issues Guidance Notice on Registration of Data Controllers and Data Processors of Major Importance
• An Examination of The Cross-Border Protection of Copyrighted Works In Nigeria
• Registration Requirement for Corporate Bonds in Nigeria
• An Analysis Of The Startup Act 2022
• An analysis of the CBN’s Exposure Draft of the Risk Based Cyber Security Framework and Guidelines for Other Financial Institutions
• Ensuring Good Corporate Governance through Effective Succession Planning An Overview Of The Lagos State Real Estate Transactions Law 2021
• Society for Corporate Governance on the “Potential Risk -A consideration for the effectiveness of a Board
• Copyright, Patents and Trademarks

Awards and Recognition

• Kenna Partners NYSC Counsel of the year 2022