Under the expert guidance of the ‘calm and measured’ Chuks Ibechukwu, the London office of Nigeria-based full-service firm Olaniwun Ajayi (UK) LLP has established itself as a market leader for handling the English law aspects of Africa-based finance transactions for both lenders and borrowers. The scope of this work is broad-ranging and includes financings utilising both commercial and development finance-backed funding for project and debt finance transactions, particularly in the energy sector. Juanita Derex-Briggs is instrumental in contributing to the firm's success on the sponsor front, including on bilateral and syndicated transactions.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality
Client satisfaction: Billing & efficiency
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘The team has managed to find the perfect balance of commercial pragmatism and protecting lender rights brilliantly. I feel safe in their hands - like our interests are being totally protected. The team also really drives the deal forward, keeping momentum up.’
- 'Chuks Ibechukwu is an incredible source of knowledge and experience. He brings a calm and measured experience to the transaction.'
Key clients
- Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited
- Dangote Cement Plc
Work highlights
Acting as international legal counsel to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited in connection with its $3.3bn Royalties and Tax Crude Oil-Backed Prepayment Facility, known as Project Gazelle.
Practice head
Chuks Ibechukwu
Other key lawyers
Howard Barrie
Juanita Derex-Briggs
Akemi Kishimoto