The Managing Partner of Piquancy Solicitors, Folakemi Jegede, has urged Nigerian entrepreneurs to strictly adhere to professional legal advice, describing it as a critical foundation for sustainable business growth and economic stability.
Jegede, who also serves as Welfare Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ikeja Branch, made the call during the firm’s 10th anniversary celebration themed “A Decade of Grace,” held in Lagos at the weekend.
Speaking from a legal and governance perspective, she stressed that compliance with legal guidance helps businesses anticipate risks, avoid regulatory breaches and build structures that support long-term stability.
According to her, while many entrepreneurs retain lawyers for documentation or dispute resolution, they often fail to implement legal counsel when it conflicts with immediate profit goals, a practice she warned could expose companies to litigation, regulatory sanctions and reputational damage.
“I urge business owners to see legal practitioners as partners in progress rather than obstacles to profit.
“Lawyers help businesses anticipate future risks and provide direction that supports stability and growth.”
Jegede explained that legal advisory services play a strategic role in corporate governance, contract management, regulatory compliance and dispute prevention, all of which are essential for sustainable economic development.
She further noted that effective legal representation requires proper valuation and compensation, stressing that clients must be willing to pay for professional expertise if they expect enduring results.
Reflecting on the firm’s decade-long journey, Jegede attributed its growth to faith, integrity and consistent hard work, describing the anniversary as a moment to appreciate the firm’s humble beginning and reaffirm its commitment to ethical legal practice.
“We did not begin with abundance; we began with belief in God and in the sacredness of the legal profession,” she said.
She recounted that the firm started from a modest office with limited visibility but gradually built credibility by delivering quality legal services and maintaining strict ethical standards.
Over the years, the firm has handled complex legal matters and advised individuals, families and businesses across various sectors.
Jegede acknowledged that the journey was not without challenges, including economic uncertainties and the difficulties associated with building a law practice.
However, she said resilience and commitment to ethical practice enabled the firm to grow despite the obstacles.
She also expressed appreciation to her husband, mentors, colleagues, partners and early clients who believed in the firm’s vision, noting that integrity has remained the guiding principle behind its operations.
Looking ahead, Jegede said the next phase of the firm’s development would focus on deeper specialisation in legal practice, strengthening governance structures and expanding its institutional influence.
Also speaking at the event, Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Dr Wahab Shittu, congratulated the firm on what he described as a decade of professional excellence built on integrity, competence and service.
According to him, the anniversary was not only a celebration of legal practice but also a recognition of Jegede’s character and leadership within the profession.
“Lawyering is about skill, and Folakemi Jegede has a lot of it. But beyond skill, you must be trustworthy. Integrity is the foundation of lasting professional success,” Shittu said.
He encouraged lawyers to reflect on their professional reputation and the legacy they are building within the legal profession.
In a goodwill message, one of the firm’s earliest clients, Roland Essien, also a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, described Jegede as not only his lawyer but also a trusted ally.
Essien recounted a property dispute he faced several years ago involving a landlord and tenant disagreement, which eventually led to litigation.
According to him, Jegede represented him at a time when she was still establishing herself in legal practice.
“She was hesitant at first, but from the moment she accepted the case, I saw her determination and attention to detail. She put everything into the matter and eventually succeeded. I still have that property today,” he said.
He commended Jegede’s professionalism, perseverance and commitment to ethical practice, noting that her dedication has earned her the trust of many clients.
Essien further urged clients who have benefited from the firm’s services to support its growth by recommending its legal expertise to others.
“My charge to everyone here today is simple: if you are happy with her service, help spread the word.
“Encourage your friends, colleagues and businesses to seek her guidance. That is how we sustain and enable the good work she is doing,” he added.
In this article