In a significant move to bolster the independence of Nigeria's judiciary, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu swore in Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the acting Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) on Friday. The ceremony, held at the Council Chamber of the State House, Abuja, marks Justice Kekere-Ekun's rise as the 23rd Chief Justice of Nigeria and only the second female to hold this esteemed position.
During the swearing-in ceremony, President Tinubu emphasized the critical importance of judicial independence as a cornerstone for maintaining social order, peace, and security in Nigeria. He urged the new acting Chief Justice to uphold the highest standards of integrity, discipline, and transparency within the judiciary.
"Undoubtedly, the position of the Chief Justice of Nigeria comes with enormous responsibilities as the head of all judicial institutions in the country. It is a position of considerable influence that demands temperance and sobriety," President Tinubu remarked. He further stressed, "I, therefore, urge your Lordship to be faithful and loyal to the Constitution when discharging your duty as the acting Chief Justice of Nigeria."
The President praised Justice Kekere-Ekun's professional and personal pedigree, highlighting her impeccable record from her early days as a magistrate to her elevation to the Supreme Court. He lauded her dedication, calling her a "trailblazer" and a "brilliant lawyer" whose career has been marked by an "unblemished record, strong work ethic, and dedication to her calling as a priest in the temple of justice."
Justice Kekere-Ekun, a 1981 call to the Nigerian Bar, now follows in the footsteps of Justice Aloma Mariam Mukhtar, GCON, becoming the second woman to ascend to the role of Chief Justice of Nigeria. President Tinubu noted that her appointment is an inspiration to young women across the country, aspiring to break glass ceilings and make meaningful contributions to society.
Reflecting on the judiciary's evolution since the Supreme Court was established as Nigeria's highest court in 1963, President Tinubu highlighted its vital role in resolving complex legal conflicts and shaping public policies. He underscored his administration's commitment to supporting the judiciary, citing the expedited passage of the Judicial Autonomy Act of 2024 and a significant increase in judicial officers' remuneration.
"Let me also reassure you that the judiciary under this administration will continue to receive prompt and adequate attention, recognizing its status as a driver of social order, rule of law, peace, security, and economic development," President Tinubu affirmed.
The President also extended his gratitude to the immediate past Chief Justice, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, commending his 32 years of dedicated service to the judiciary and the nation.
In her address following the ceremony, Justice Kekere-Ekun expressed her commitment to elevating the judiciary to new heights, enhancing its reputation, and sustaining public confidence. "We will make sure that people have more confidence in the judiciary, and I believe that it is not a one-man job. We all have to be on board," she stated, calling for collective efforts to address the shortcomings within the system.
The swearing-in was attended by a host of dignitaries, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, former Chief Justices, justices of the Supreme Court, senior judicial officers, and members of the Federal Executive Council. Justice Kekere-Ekun's family, led by her spouse, Mr. Akin Kekere-Ekun, also graced the occasion.
As part of measures to enhance the judiciary's welfare, President Tinubu's administration has doubled the federal budgetary allocation to the institution, reinforcing its commitment to strengthening Nigeria's judicial system.
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