Justice Kudirat Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun took the oath of office on Monday as the 23rd Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu reaffirming his administration’s commitment to maintaining the independence and sanctity of the judiciary.
The ceremony, held at the Council Chamber of the State House, Abuja, was attended by top legal and government officials. Justice Kekere-Ekun, the second woman in Nigeria’s history to assume the role of CJN, was sworn in following her Senate confirmation. Among the witnesses were four former Chief Justices of Nigeria, including Justice Aloma Mukhtar, the first female CJN, and other key judicial figures.
President Tinubu, speaking at the event, highlighted the judiciary’s critical role in safeguarding Nigeria’s constitutional democracy. “The judiciary is an important pillar constituting the tripod that holds our constitutional democracy. Indeed, the Nigerian judiciary, at various times in history, has proven to be the moderating force ensuring everyone remains in check,” the President said.
The President stressed the importance of maintaining the judiciary’s independence, assuring that his administration would not interfere with the workings of the judiciary. “Under my watch, the government will also be mindful of the clear line demarcating the two of us. We will never interfere or abuse the relationship between us as separate organs of government,” Tinubu stated, underscoring the need for collaboration without overstepping boundaries.
Tinubu also reiterated his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare and working conditions of judicial officers, ensuring they can effectively discharge their duties. He urged Justice Kekere-Ekun to continue exemplifying the qualities of leadership, honesty, and fearlessness that have defined her career.
“The Nigerian judiciary needs a leader with these qualities at this time, and I have no doubt that you will set the pace for others to follow,” the President added.
In his remarks, Tinubu praised Justice Kekere-Ekun’s rise as a symbol of inspiration for women and young girls across Nigeria, particularly in a male-dominated profession. “This day has also cemented the judiciary as a self-evolving and progressive institution. I specifically congratulate the Nigerian women. Any girl child can dream big and have her dreams come true. It is worth celebrating,” he said.
Justice Kekere-Ekun’s family, including her 89-year-old mother, Mama Wilfred Layiwola Ogundimu (Nee Savage), and her husband, Akin Kekere-Ekun, were also present at the ceremony, sharing in the historic moment.
President Tinubu commended the Senate for swiftly confirming the new CJN and expressed gratitude to the judiciary for their continued support. Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, former Chief Justices, and senior judicial officers were among the attendees.
Justice Kekere-Ekun’s appointment as CJN is expected to further strengthen the judiciary’s role in upholding the rule of law, particularly as the nation navigates complex legal challenges.
