Oba Nsugbe KC, SAN
Barrister
Regarded as a leading practitioner in the UK and Nigeria, Oba Nsugbe KC, SAN has a broad international practice focussing on Africa related litigation and dispute resolution. He provides high-level advice and representation for individuals, corporate clients and other organisations (including NGOs) in matters ranging from business crime and corrupt practices to contractual and corporate disputes.
His ongoing international work includes acting as Lead Counsel in substantial oil spillage litigation in the Technology & Construction Court in London and advising UK based solicitors on a major oil and gas asset sale in Nigeria together with related litigation in the Federal High Court in Lagos. He is joint lead Counsel in a multi-jurisdictional claim for families of multiple victims of the Dana Air Crash which occurred in Lagos in 2012 He recently advised the Swiss Government in its case against Nigeria before ITLOS, and was joint lead Counsel for two US companies in only Nigeria’s second case at ICSID. He advised and appeared for the Lagos State Government in arbitral proceedings instituted against it following the collapse of Enron and the termination of various related contracts entered into by the State.
Oba has also provided expert advice and evidence on issues of Nigerian law to a wide range of institutional, corporate and individual clients ranging from the Treasury Solicitors to leading City firms and business entrepreneurs.
His specialist areas of Nigerian law expertise include:
Called to the Bar in 1985, when Oba took silk in 2002 aged only 39, he was described in a leading law commentary as 'a rising star of the Bar of England and Wales'.
He commands considerable respect from both clients and peers. Numerous entries in Chambers and Partners over the years have described him as 'a first-class advocate' as well as 'a true gentleman who deserves his fabulous reputation', adding that he has a 'fine forensic mind' and is admired for his 'technical excellence'.
Contributors to the directory have also remarked that he is 'fabulously personable, easy-going, and adored by judges and juries', 'works extremely well in a team' and 'impresses interviewees with his calm and genial manner'.
In 2023, he was recognised as one of Africa’s top 30 arbitrators in Africa’s Arbitration Power list Awards administered by the Africa Arbitration Academy. He appears in the 2024 Black Power list as one of the 100 most influential black people in the United Kingdom.
Click here to view his CV.
