In a historic ceremony at the Council Chamber of the State House, Abuja, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday officially swore in Justice Kudirat Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun as the 23rd Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN). Justice Kekere-Ekun, who now becomes the second female CJN in Nigeria’s history, took the oath of office following her recent confirmation by the Nigerian Senate.
The event drew an impressive gathering of top judiciary figures, including four former Chief Justices of Nigeria, the President of the Court of Appeal, and other key judicial leaders. Among those present was Justice Aloma Mukhtar, the first female CJN, adding a symbolic note to the proceedings.
President Tinubu, in his remarks, reaffirmed the critical role of the judiciary in upholding Nigeria’s constitutional democracy, emphasizing his administration’s unwavering commitment to preserving its independence.
“The judiciary stands as one of the critical pillars of our constitutional democracy, a moderating force that ensures all branches of government and the people themselves adhere to the rule of law,” the President stated. He highlighted that the judiciary’s role as the “last hope of the common man” must be sustained to reinforce public trust in the democratic process.
He further assured the judiciary of his administration’s respect for its autonomy, pledging not to interfere with its operations while maintaining a collaborative but respectful relationship between the executive and judicial branches.
“Under my watch, this government will be mindful of the line separating the executive and the judiciary. We will never interfere or undermine the sanctity of your institution. This is vital for the continued sustenance of our democracy,” President Tinubu added.
In addition to pledging judicial independence, the President spoke on the need to enhance the welfare and working conditions of judicial officers, acknowledging recent steps taken to boost their effectiveness in delivering justice. He called on the newly appointed CJN to continue to exemplify ethical leadership, fearlessness, and integrity in her role, virtues that have defined her long and illustrious career on the bench.
“The judiciary at this time needs a leader with the qualities of ethical fortitude and courage. I am confident that Justice Kekere-Ekun will lead by example, setting a standard for others to follow,” he noted.
President Tinubu also used the occasion to commend Justice Kekere-Ekun’s ascension to the apex judicial office as a landmark achievement for women in Nigeria, particularly in the legal profession, which has long been dominated by men. He hailed her success as an inspiration for young girls and women across the country, encouraging them to aim high in all their pursuits.
“This is not just a moment for the judiciary but a significant step for gender inclusion in our country. Today, young Nigerian girls can see that there are no limits to what they can achieve,” the President said, congratulating women on the progress made in breaking gender barriers.
Also present at the ceremony was Justice Kekere-Ekun’s 89-year-old mother, Mama Wilfred Layiwola Ogundimu (née Savage), and her husband, Akin Kekere-Ekun, leading a contingent of family members who witnessed her historic appointment. President Tinubu lauded the family’s support, recognizing the invaluable role of family in the success of the nation’s leaders.
The President expressed his gratitude to the Senate for its swift confirmation of the new CJN and thanked members of the judiciary for their steadfastness and dedication to the rule of law.
In attendance were Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, former Chief Justices of Nigeria, justices of the Supreme Court, senior judicial officers, and members of the Federal Executive Council, who all celebrated the momentous occasion that further solidified Nigeria’s judiciary as a beacon of progress and continuity.
Justice Kekere-Ekun, who has been praised for her impeccable judicial record, now takes on the responsibility of leading Nigeria’s judiciary into a new era of fairness, integrity, and judicial reform.
