By: Ifedayo Similoluwa
Layeni, Francis Ademola is a 200-level law student of the Faculty of Law, Lagos State University, and the newly appointed LASULAWS Campus Director of the West African Law Students' Association (WALSA). The West African Law Students’ Association (WALSA) is a well-structured platform for law students in Sub-Saharan Africa. It was inspired by Pan-West African leaders and focuses on promoting unity, good governance, democracy, human rights, justice, and the advancement of legal systems in West Africa. WALSA is affiliated with organizations like the Legal Ideas Forum International, the International Bar Association, the African Bar Association, and CEDEAO ECOWAS.
SIMI: Congratulations on your appointment as the Campus Director! What can you say about being the newly appointed Campus Director? Also, what qualifications and experiences do you believe contributed to your selection for this role?
FRANCIS: Thank you very much. Well, it's the first-ever from LASULAWS. It's a great milestone for me, LASULAWS, and the association. When it comes to qualifications, I would say my academics, personality, and faith in God. My experiences can all be linked to several aspects, but most importantly, they reflect the principles I live by.
Q: You mentioned the principles you live by. Over time, we have seen student politicians elected and appointed with many plans and proposals, but they have often failed to bring about significant improvements for the student body. Mr. Francis, as an appointee, what unique perspective or skills do you bring to the position that will benefit the law student community in West Africa, especially on your campus?
A: "Student Politicians elected and they failed to improve?” Well, to the best of my knowledge, I possess a strong sense of networking, youth involvement, and a sense of purpose. These are just a few of the unique skills that I intend to bring to the position to benefit the law student community in West Africa, particularly on our campus.
Q: What specific objectives of projects do you plan to focus on during your tenure in this role? Also, collaboration often plays a key role in appointed positions. How do you plan to work with other appointed officials and student organizations across West Africa to achieve common goals?
A: Fantastic! I'm glad you mentioned collaboration. "Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much." As a campus director, my tenure will bring forth projects centred on positive networking within the prestigious field of law and youth empowerment, not only regionally but also on an international scale.
Q: That's great, Mr. Campus Director. However, do you have specific projects or objectives that you are currently planning to focus on?
A: Well, I prefer to keep those plans under wraps for now. When the time is right, they will be revealed, and I assure you they will be impactful.
Q: Transparency and accountability are crucial in leadership. How do you plan to ensure transparency in your decision-making processes and communicate your actions to the student body?
A: First and foremost, it's important to clarify that I am a Campus Director, not Francis's Director. Therefore, any action that compromises accountability or transparency is out of the question. To ensure these values, I have decided to establish a fair and equitable team of visionary students who share my commitment to accountability, transparency, and unity.
Q: Balancing the responsibilities of your role with other commitments can be challenging. How do you plan to effectively manage your responsibilities in this position while maintaining your academic pursuits?
A: I am Layeni, Francis Ademola, and I've made the conscious decision to take on these responsibilities. Balancing commitments, academics, and effective management of the office will undoubtedly be a challenge, but I'm prepared for it. I've learned that in leadership, no matter how well you plan for balance, it can't be perfect. Like Burna said, "I don't have plans; I just act." In my case, "My plans just come, and I act judiciously."
Q: What do you believe is the most significant issue currently affecting law students in West Africa, especially law students on your campus, and how do you plan to contribute to its resolution?
A: It's unfortunate, but I believe the most significant issue is a lack of clear purpose. Many law students are still trying to find their place in the legal field. Addressing this issue is a priority, and I'm confident that I can contribute to its resolution.
Q: Finally, Mr. Campus Director, have you identified any potential partnerships or collaborations with legal organizations, institutions, or professionals to enhance the impact of your role?
A: My role as the Campus Director is significant, and I'm sure the students will be pleased. The Campus Director's office is actively exploring partnerships, not just with any legal organization, but one of the best in West Africa. However, I can't disclose the details at this time.
SIMI: Mr. Campus Director, while you couldn't disclose certain information in this interview, we hope that your tenure is characterized by transparency and brings the best for law students on your Campus.
FRANCIS: "You don't show all your cards at once, not even when you're not sure of what the next player is holding.” When I mention the name of the legal organization the Campus Director’s office is proposing to partner with, and if due to unforeseen circumstances it doesn't yield the expected results, I wouldn't want a situation where it's said, "he failed to do his job, he lied to us." However, I'm sure of establishing a fair and equal team of visionary students who are committed to accountability, transparency, and unity. When everything is fully ready, the world shall see it.
SIMI: Thank you so much for your time. It's been a pleasure having you here. We wish you a successful tenure and trust that you will represent the West African Law Students' Association's (WALSA) International Executive Council effectively.
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