Justice Kudirat Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun was sworn in as the 23rd Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who pledged his administration’s unwavering commitment to the independence and integrity of the judiciary. The ceremony took place on Monday at the State House, Abuja, following Justice Kekere-Ekun’s confirmation by the Senate.
Justice Kekere-Ekun, the second woman in Nigerian history to hold the position, took the oath of office in the presence of four former Chief Justices, including the first female CJN, Justice Aloma Mukhtar. Other dignitaries included the President of the Court of Appeal and heads of various judicial bodies.
According to his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu emphasized the critical role of the judiciary in maintaining Nigeria’s constitutional democracy. He described it as a fundamental pillar of governance that ensures checks and balances.
“The judiciary stands as the last hope of the common man, giving confidence to our people that justice is always within reach. It is vital that our judiciary remains truly independent,” President Tinubu remarked, adding that his government would not interfere with the judiciary but would respect the separation of powers between the executive and the judiciary.
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to improving the welfare and working conditions of judicial officers to enhance their effectiveness in delivering justice. He urged Justice Kekere-Ekun to continue embodying the values of ethical leadership and courage that have marked her judicial career.
“The judiciary needs a leader with these qualities, and I am confident you will lead by example,” Tinubu said.
The President also praised Justice Kekere-Ekun’s ascent as a symbol of hard work and a source of inspiration for women, especially young girls aspiring to succeed in male-dominated fields. He noted that her appointment highlights the progressive and evolving nature of the judiciary.
“Today is a proud moment for Nigerian women, proving that any girl child can achieve her dreams,” Tinubu added, acknowledging the presence of Justice Kekere-Ekun’s family, including her 89-year-old mother and her husband, Akin Kekere-Ekun.
President Tinubu extended his gratitude to the Senate for promptly confirming the new CJN and lauded the judiciary for its continued support.
The event was attended by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, former Chief Justices, Supreme Court justices, and senior government officials.
