Police Blessing Ufuoma Esq.: To build a thriving business ecosystem, legal inclusion is essential

Blessing Ufuoma Police, Esq.

First impressions are lasting impressions, so they say. As I came across Police Blessing Ufuoma's profile, what drew me to her was her surname. I thought she was in the police force or had links there. Probably she would tell us more about that whenever the opportunity presents itself. 

But my assumption was far from it; she is a Lawyer, in fact, the latest Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria. Lately, she was called to the largest Bar in Africa with over 7000 candidates, ranking 227 out of 7134  students. Can you beat that?

With all sense of modesty, having accumulated several certifications and memberships, Blessing made it known that the most important thing to her in life was the act of service. If she is not in the courtroom or the law firm involved in dispute resolution, legal advisory, policy and international development, Blessing spends her time as life coach empowering children and communities through the law.

Omote Ro Dhe was fascinated by Blessing, who is a clear picture of beauty and brains. In a chat, this learned lady tells her story in a unique and inspiring way. Read excerpts:

Can you tell us something about you that is not on your profile or CV?

From as early as primary school, I found myself in leadership roles such as class captain, club secretary, and later, Head Girl in secondary school. Interestingly, I never saw in myself what others seemed to see, I simply showed up and gave my best. Even when the odds were against me (being an Arts student, for example), I was chosen to lead.

What’s not on my CV is that I’m deeply introspective. I often reflect on how my life can create ripple effects beyond my immediate circle. I’m also someone who believes strongly in faith, resilience, and using every opportunity, no matter how small, to serve a greater purpose.

What drew you to corporate and business law specifically? Were there defining moments or influences?

Corporate and business law fascinated me because it’s where law meets impact at scale. One business decision, whether compliant or not, can affect thousands of lives. During my internship at JAO Torridor & Co, I was exposed to company registration, corporate compliance, and business advisory. That experience helped me see law as a tool not just for regulation, but for empowerment, helping small businesses grow, protecting investor rights, and ensuring ethical entrepreneurship.

The turning point for me was realising how many entrepreneurs in Nigeria and across Africa don’t have access to proper legal guidance and how that leaves them vulnerable. I want to bridge that gap.

What legal issues in the corporate world do you think deserve more public awareness or reform?

Two major areas in dire need of reform and public awareness are business registration and tax compliance, especially for small and informal businesses. Many entrepreneurs, particularly women and youth, are either unaware of their legal obligations or unable to meet them due to the complexity and bureaucracy of the current systems. Legal processes, from registration to compliance, often feel inaccessible and alienating. And unfortunately, the use of technical legal language (legalese) only widens that gap.

There’s a clear and urgent need for simplified, accessible legal education tailored for grassroots entrepreneurs. If we want to build a thriving and inclusive business ecosystem, legal inclusion must be part of the conversation. Laws shouldn’t be barriers; they should be bridges to opportunity.

This need for reform is further echoed in the recent revelations by Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of Nigeria’s Presidential Tax Reform Committee. According to him, Nigeria currently imposes over 60 different taxes, with state and local governments responsible for about 46, ranging from truck fees to canoe charges. Many of these are what he rightly calls “nuisance taxes”—they add little to public revenue but cause a lot of harm.

These taxes harass everyday Nigerians; traders, transporters, hawkers, artisans, and foster fear instead of trust. Rather than solving problems, they deepen poverty and fuel resentment.

Thankfully, Oyedele’s committee is pushing for progressive reforms, including:

• Eliminating irrelevant and burdensome taxes
• Harmonising and simplifying the necessary ones
• Digitising tax collection (e.g., via USSD)
• And critically making local government budgeting and spending more transparent

This is not just a policy matter; it’s about restoring dignity to the Nigerian citizen. The woman selling fruits by the roadside. The youth trying to start a clothing brand. The man driving goods across states. They all deserve a fair and functional tax system, one that empowers, not exploits.

As someone passionate about governance and grassroots accountability, I echo the call:

It’s time to reimagine taxation as a tool for nation-building not oppression.

Because when taxes are just, transparent, and wisely used, every Nigerian wins.

You’re also passionate about children’s rights and education. What experiences or insights sparked that advocacy?

My passion for child advocacy is rooted in lived experience. As a child, I often wondered why some children had to walk long distances to school while I could ride in a vehicle. That curiosity grew into compassion and later, conviction.

In secondary school, I had a dream of building free schools for underprivileged children. I wanted to create environments where every child, regardless of background, could access quality education, feel safe, and dream big. Over the years, I’ve seen firsthand how many children are robbed of their childhoods through child marriage, abuse, or lack of access to education.

To me, children are not just the “leaders of tomorrow”; they are full of promise today. Their development must be protected with urgency. When society fails its children, it fails its future. My advocacy is simply a way of saying: every child matters, and no dream should die in childhood.

As a legal enthusiast, how do you stay inspired and informed in such a dynamic field?

I believe that knowledge is power, and in law, it’s also a tool for justice. To stay inspired, I read extensively, from journals and legal blogs to books on policy, human rights, and global development. Lately, I’ve become more intentional about staying updated with current affairs, both locally and globally, because a good lawyer must know something about everything.

Being informed helps me think critically about the role of law in everyday life, whether it’s tax policy, business regulation, or child protection. I also draw inspiration from the impact stories of lawyers who have used their voices to spark systemic change.

If you could play the role of any historical or fictional character, who would it be and why?

I would love to step into the role of Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, a visionary, freedom fighter, and Nigeria’s first President. He stood for unity, education, and self-determination, ideals I hold dear as an advocate and lawyer. His ability to combine intellect with action and diplomacy with boldness is something I deeply admire. As someone working towards policy impact and global advocacy for children, I find his legacy of nation-building incredibly inspiring.

How can professionals in different industries better collaborate with legal minds like yours to create ethical and inclusive systems?  

Collaboration begins with a shared understanding of purpose. Professionals across industries, from tech to education, health, and business, can work more effectively with legal experts by integrating legal insights at the foundation of their strategies, not just when challenges arise. Lawyers are trained to assess risks, interpret policies, and ensure ethical compliance, which is essential in building systems that are not only inclusive but also sustainable.

For me as a lawyer and child advocate, cross-sector collaboration means being invited to the table early, when ideas are being formed, so we can create frameworks that are both legally sound and socially impactful. Whether it’s drafting inclusive education policies, developing digital platforms that protect children’s data, or advising on compliance for NGOs, legal minds have a unique role in safeguarding human rights while enabling innovation.

Success is relative. What does it mean to you? Who are some women who are your yardstick of being successful?

Interesting question!

To me, success means living in alignment with purpose, giving your best to what you believe in and impacting lives along the way. It’s not just about how much you earn or own, but about the difference you make.

My biggest yardsticks for success are my parents. They’ve inspired me from day one with their work ethic and sacrifices. I’ve watched them wake up early and sleep late, all to ensure that I never lack anything. That kind of selflessness is the definition of success to me.

Beyond them, I’d say Grace Ofure Ibhakhomu. I remember learning about how she began her journey with very little, no financial privilege, just a bold vision and unshakable determination. From selling second-hand clothes (okrika) to building a real estate empire, Grace Ofure’s story is a testament to what is possible when purpose meets resilience.

Her rise wasn’t overnight. She faced struggles that could have broken anyone, but she stayed focused. Today, she’s not just a successful entrepreneur, she’s a mentor, a philanthropist, and a voice for women’s empowerment across Africa. Watching her journey reminds me that success doesn’t come from comfort zones; it comes from consistent action, faith, and a heart that refuses to give up.

She embodies the kind of leadership that’s not just about wealth, but about impact, integrity, and legacy. Grace Ofure is living proof that humble beginnings are not a limitation—but a foundation for greatness.

What’s one thing people often misunderstand about you?  

Honestly, I can’t say for sure. Sometimes I feel like I’m not very present in the lives of my family and friends because I’m constantly working to improve myself or chasing one goal or another. But recently, I’ve come to realise that they actually appreciate me deeply. Even the little time I spend with them means a lot. They see me as a kind friend, a thoughtful daughter, and a supportive colleague. So truthfully, I don’t think I’m misunderstood, I’m just hard on myself sometimes.

What advice would you give to young African women who want to make an impact?

Be daring and audacious. If you’ve dreamt about it or thought about it, then it’s possible.

Don’t get distracted by material things to the point where you lose sight of your purpose. You were created for more, so live with that conviction.

Be patient with yourself. Rome wasn’t built in a day; you are also a work in progress. It’s okay to make mistakes; I’ve made many, and I’m still learning. But all of it is part of “becoming.” You won’t get very far if you’re always scared or waiting for the perfect moment.

Show up anyway. And when you feel weak, pray. God always listens.