Gateley strengthens International Arbitration Team

Gateley, a leading law firm, has expanded its international arbitration team across the EMEA region with the appointment of Perenami Momodu, a seasoned legal professional based in Nigeria. Formerly a partner at a prominent West African law firm, Momodu brings over a decade of experience in complex international arbitration and multi-national disputes.

In her new role, Momodu will spearhead Gateley's African practice, supporting the firm's strategic expansion in various sectors such as oil and gas, infrastructure, technology, fintech, construction, investments, and renewable energy. This move aligns with Gateley's commitment to enhancing capabilities in international arbitration, especially in fast-growing economies like those in Africa and the Middle East.

Momodu, the fourth addition to Gateley's international arbitration team, will collaborate closely with London-based partners Michael Lightfoot and Kieran John McCarthy, who assumed co-head roles in September. Additionally, she will work with legal director Tonderai Nyandoro, based in Dubai.

Richard Healey, Gateley's Head of Business Services, expressed enthusiasm about Momodu's appointment, stating that it marks the next phase of their commitment to strengthening international arbitration capabilities, particularly in emerging economies. Michael Lightfoot, Partner and Co-head of International Arbitration, emphasized Momodu's skills and experience, envisioning her contribution as vital in making Gateley a leading player in international arbitration.

Before joining Gateley, Momodu led the dispute resolution and international arbitration practice groups at a West African law firm. Her achievements include overseeing disputes arising from the privatization and bid process of a major Nigerian enterprise and successfully representing an exploration and production company in a $40 million arbitration.

Momodu's advisory services spanned financial institutions, corporate organizations, and multinational companies, covering cross-border insolvency, foreign direct investments in Nigeria, and labor and employment matters. She received the Special Recognition Award in 2019 from the Vice-President of Nigeria for her involvement in the country's proposed insolvency reforms.

Expressing her excitement about the new role, Momodu emphasized the opportunity to build Gateley's international arbitration practice in Africa. Based in Nigeria, she aims to support Gateley's Africa strategy and collaborate with the team to broaden her international arbitration expertise in the UK and the Middle East. This strategic move reflects Gateley's dedication to facilitating business links and investments between the UK and African countries, fostering mutual benefits for clients across jurisdictions.