President Bola Tinubu officially swore in Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the 23rd Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) in a significant ceremony held at the State House in Abuja. The swearing-in took place at precisely 11:40 a.m. on Friday, within the Council Chamber, where Justice Kekere-Ekun took the oath of office and subsequently signed the official oath register.
Justice Kekere-Ekun’s appointment comes as she steps into the role following the retirement of her predecessor, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, who served as Chief Justice from June 27, 2022, until his retirement on Thursday after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 70. Her appointment as CJN is pending confirmation by the Senate, a necessary step in the formal process.
Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun’s ascension to the position marks a pivotal moment in the judiciary, as she brings with her a wealth of experience and a distinguished career on the bench. Her leadership is expected to guide the Nigerian judiciary through ongoing reforms and challenges, continuing the legacy of her predecessors while also making her own mark on the country’s legal landscape.
The ceremony was attended by senior government officials, members of the judiciary, and other dignitaries who witnessed the historic transition of leadership at the highest level of Nigeria’s judicial system. Justice Kekere-Ekun’s appointment underscores the ongoing commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the integrity of the judiciary in Nigeria.
