The West African Bar Association (WABA) has announced a significant leadership transition following the sudden resignation of its President, Mr. Ousmane Bouba Traore.
The resignation, which took effect immediately, was tendered by Mr. Traore citing personal reasons.
In a press release dated June 15, 2025, the WABA Secretariat confirmed that the current Vice President, Cllr. Bornor M. Varmah, will assume office as Acting President, in accordance with the Association’s Constitution.
Cllr. Varmah, who currently serves as President of the Liberian National Bar Association (LNBA), is widely respected as an accomplished International Trade Lawyer and a longstanding advocate for legal reform and human rights in the region.
Speaking during a virtual meeting of WABA’s Executive Committee on June 13, Cllr. Varmah expressed both humility and resolve in taking up the role.
“I am honored to assume this responsibility at such a critical juncture,” he said. “We remain committed to the shared vision of a just, democratic, and peaceful West Africa. I extend profound gratitude to Mr. Traore for his service, and I look forward to building on the strong foundation he has laid.”
Mr. Traore’s tenure, although brief, was characterized by his strong advocacy for regional legal integration and the protection of civil liberties across member states.
The transition comes at a time when WABA is actively engaging with regional institutions to strengthen the rule of law and promote judicial independence across the sub-region.
The Executive Committee has reaffirmed its commitment to these goals, stating that the Association remains “resolute and unshaken” in its mission to uphold the integrity of the legal profession in West Africa.
As part of the ongoing developments, WABA has also announced plans to convene a General Meeting of all West African Bar leaders in Nigeria. The date for the meeting is expected to be announced shortly.
WABA, headquartered in Abuja, Nigeria, serves as the umbrella body for national bar associations across West Africa, playing a crucial role in promoting legal cooperation, defending human rights, and ensuring justice within the ECOWAS region.
