Africa (Commonwealth Union) _ In a significant move that highlights the Nigerian government’s commitment to judicial integrity, President Bola Tinubu recently swore in Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the new Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN). During the ceremony, held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of the role, urging Justice Kekere-Ekun to defend the judiciary’s independence while promoting justice across the nation. The president underscored the necessity of upholding and enhancing integrity, discipline, and transparency within the judicial system, recognizing the substantial influence that comes with the office of the CJN.
Justice Kekere-Ekun’s appointment is particularly notable as she becomes the second woman to ascend to this esteemed position, following in the footsteps of Justice Aloma Mariam Mukhtar. Her journey from magistrate to Supreme Court justice is a testament to her dedication, hard work, and unblemished record. Her new role, President Tinubu highlighted, is not only a beacon of hope for the judiciary but also an inspiration for young women across Nigeria who aspire to break through societal barriers and achieve greatness in their chosen fields.
The president praised Justice Kekere-Ekun’s long-standing contributions to the legal field, acknowledging her reputation as an incorruptible and fair-minded judge. He also reflected on the critical role the Supreme Court has played since the 1963 Constitution empowered it as Nigeria’s highest court, especially in resolving complex legal conflicts and shaping public policies that impact all segments of society.
In her acceptance speech, Justice Kekere-Ekun vowed to build on the foundations of her predecessors and work towards a judiciary that the entire nation can be proud of. She recognized the challenges ahead, particularly in restoring public confidence in the judicial system, but expressed optimism that with collective effort, significant improvements could be achieved. Justice Kekere-Ekun also highlighted the importance of discipline within the judiciary and at the bar, as well as the need for meticulousness in the judicial appointment process.
The swearing-in ceremony was attended by high-profile dignitaries, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, former and current justices of the Supreme Court, senior judicial officers, and members of the Federal Executive Council, as well as Justice Kekere-Ekun’s family. Her appointment is expected to usher in a new era of integrity and reform within Nigeria’s judiciary, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone of justice and societal order.
