By Akinwale Kasali
The Senate has confirmed the Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the position of Chief Justice of Nigeria, CJN. She was confirmed Wednesday, about two days after President Bola Tinubu sent her name for confirmation.
Justice Kekere-Ekun had been in Acting Capacity as the Chief Justice of the Federal Republic of Nigeria since the retirement of Justice Olukayode Ariwoola in August 2024.
At the screening Kekere-Ekun was joined by members of the Judiciary from different courts and her relatives.
In a letter to the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, President Tinubu said “I have the honour to forward the nomination of Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun CON for confirmation as CJN.
“While it is my hope that this request will receive the expeditious consideration and confirmation of the senate, please, accept the distinguished senate president the assurances of my highest consideration and personal regards.”
At the Screening exercise, Kekere-Ekun vowed to ensure that petitions are dealt with speedily to foster integrity within the Judiciary.
The New CJN is a 1974 Queens College Alumnus and a Life Bencher. She pledged to do her best and uphold the integrity of the judiciary, the rule of law and defend the Constitution of Nigeria.
In her words: “I am known for integrity and discipline. I will ensure zero tolerance for corruption,” Kekere-Ekun assured.
“There is a need to insulate the Judiciary and push for better welfare for Judicial Officers to ensure they perform optimally. Appointment of Judicial Officers will also be stringent.”
The new Chief Justice of Nigeria also advocated for better legislation to boost the country’s autonomy, while highlighting the limitation in the volume of cases submitted to the Supreme Court.
She specifically recommended that all cases related to elections conclude at the Court of Appeal.
Kekere-Ekun believed that improving behaviour during elections is crucial to eliminate the necessity of constantly going to court.
By her confirmation, she becomes the second Female Chief Justice of Nigeria. The first was the Honourable Justice Maryam Aloma Mukhtar.
A native of Lagos State, she is aged 66 years.
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