Togo crowns its top legal minds in the 17th OHADA Génies en Herbe competition
The Auditorium of the University of Lomé became the stage for legal brilliance on May 30, 2026, as Togo hosted the national finale of the 17th edition of the International Competition Génies en Herbe OHADA (CIGHO). This high-stakes event, co-organized by the National Coordination of CIGHO Togo and the International Association of Law Students—Togo chapter (AIEJ-TOGO), brought together the brightest young legal talents from across the country.
From preliminary rounds to national recognition
Months of rigorous selection preceded the grand finale, with qualifying heats held simultaneously in Lomé and Kara on April 25, 2026. The stage was set for the final showdown as ten finalists—hailing from the University of Lomé, University of Kara, and the Higher Institute of Law and Interpretation (ISDI)—competed for national pride and a coveted spot in the international finals.
A battle of legal wit and oratory
The competition unfolded in two critical phases. First, contestants tackled written challenges, including a Multiple-Choice Questionnaire (QCM), African Integration Questions (QIA), and the classic “Who am I?” quiz. The tension in the room peaked during the oratory segment, where finalists delivered ten-minute legal arguments on a pressing question: “Can tax law be integrated into OHADA’s material competence?”
A distinguished jury of legal experts presided over the proceedings, including:
- Pr Edem AVEGNON, Private Law Professor and Tax Law Expert—Jury President;
- Afeignidou BILABINA, Magistrate and Deputy Prosecutor—Jury Member;
- Sidick K. AKATA, Trainee Lawyer and 2025 Monferrier Dorval CIB Oratory Competition finalist—Jury Member;
- Dr Godwin Disseyi PALOUKI, Tax Inspector and 2018 CIGHO Best Thesis Award winner—Jury Member;
- Rahile MIJIYAWA, International Cooperation Advisor and 2021 CIGHO Best Advocate Award winner—Jury Member.
Spotlight on the champions
After meticulous scoring, three outstanding finalists emerged victorious in the following order:
- 1st Place: Ms. Atsoupi Ama NEGLO, Bachelor of Public Law graduate from the University of Kara;
- 2nd Place: Mr. Francis Koffi FIA, Private Law student at the University of Lomé;
- 3rd Place: Mr. Edoé F. Ulrich MENSAH-GAFAN AKOVI, Master’s student in Digital Law and Data Protection at ISDI.
The trio will now train under the mentorship of former CIGHO winners—Koamivi AGBAH, Obed Adjévi NEGLOKPE, and Bilal BABA DARO—in preparation for the international finals in September.
Gratitude and partnerships fuel success
The event’s success was made possible through the generous support of key partners, including the Togolese Revenue Authority (OTR), which provided financial backing, and the University of Lomé, which offered institutional support. The Association for the Unification of African Law (UNIDA) contributed essential legal resources, while local legal institutions and firms—such as the Lomé Court of Appeal, the Lomé Commercial Court, and several prominent law firms—provided both financial and logistical assistance.
Special recognition goes to the tireless efforts of AIEJ-TOGO’s leadership, particularly its President Marie-Claire Egnonam AVLA, as well as the OHADA Club of the University of Kara and its representatives Alika AYEBA and Assiki GNASSINGBE, whose dedication ensured a seamless selection process.
Togo gears up for the international stage
With the national finale concluded, all eyes now turn to the international competition, scheduled for September 12–19, 2026, in Lomé. The three Togolese champions will proudly represent the country, armed with their legal prowess and the unwavering support of their nation.
For inquiries:
Mr. Messifa Komlan KONALI, Magistrate and National Coordinator of CIGHO Togo (2012 Abidjan laureate)
Phone: +228 92 62 49 52
Email: [email protected]
