By Ikechukwu Nnochiri, ABUJA
The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, on Tuesday advocated for the appointment of more women to leadership positions in the judiciary, insisting it would have far-reaching implications for justice delivery in the country.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the International Association of Women Judges African Conference, the CJN maintained that excellence in the administration of justice requires a thoughtful examination of the relationship between gender equality and the legal system.
According to her, “The full and effective participation of women within the judiciary has far-reaching implications for justice delivery. From broadening jurisprudential perspectives to reducing unconscious biases and strengthening public confidence in legal institutions, the presence of women on the bench enriches the administration of justice in meaningful ways.”
Although Justice Kekere-Ekun acknowledged that encouraging progress has been made over the years in the representation of women within judiciaries across the world, she said the Nigerian judiciary should not be constrained by the very inequalities it is called upon to remedy.
“While notable gains have been made, particularly at entry and intermediate levels, significant work remains to be done in ensuring equal representation within leadership positions and at the highest levels of judicial decision-making.
“The pursuit of gender equality within the judiciary is not merely a matter of representation; it is fundamentally a matter of institutional legitimacy. A judiciary that reflects the diversity of the society it serves is better positioned to command public confidence and to appreciate the varied experiences that come before it.
“Diversity strengthens judicial deliberation, enriches legal reasoning, and ultimately enhances the quality of justice delivered.
“The judiciary, like many institutions, emerged from historical structures that offered limited opportunities for women. While considerable progress has been achieved, we must remain vigilant to ensure that our institutions are not constrained by the very inequalities they are called upon to remedy.
“Ultimately, gender inclusion must be viewed as an indispensable component of the judiciary’s commitment to fairness, equality, and the rule of law.
“In the same vein, we must encourage strategic and enduring mentorship initiatives that create pathways for continuity, sustainability, and intergenerational impact. Those who have attained positions of leadership bear a responsibility to inspire, support, and guide those who follow.
“The success of any institution is not measured solely by the achievements of its present leaders but also by its capacity to prepare the next generation to surpass them.
“We must therefore embrace a culture of collaboration and mutual support, recognising that the strength of the judiciary is built collectively rather than individually.
“The challenges confronting African judiciaries may differ in form, but they are often united by common aspirations: the aspiration for independent courts, accessible justice, efficient case management, ethical leadership, and enduring public trust. Conferences such as this provide an invaluable opportunity to learn from one another and collectively advance those aspirations,” the CJN added.
In her address, President Bola Tinubu’s wife, Oluremi, a special guest at the event held at the Body of Benchers complex in Abuja, stressed that the judiciary remains central to sustaining the rule of law in every democratic society.
Describing the conference theme — “Promoting Excellence in the Administration of Justice” — as timely and significant, Senator Tinubu urged participants drawn from various African countries to continue building judicial systems that are transparent, compassionate, and firmly anchored in the rule of law.
“At a time when societies across the world are advancing through new legal, technological, and social developments, the pursuit of excellence within our justice system remains both an obligation and a moral imperative.
“The judiciary remains central to sustaining the rule of law in a democratic society, serving as the institution where justice and fairness are upheld and the rights of citizens are protected.
“The presence of women on the bench adds value to the judicial system by broadening perspectives and deepening understanding in the dispensation of justice.
“Across Africa, women judges have broken through long-standing barriers and, by their resilience and excellence, paved the way for future generations of women in the legal profession.
“As a former senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I understand the challenges women face while aspiring for leadership positions. This is why I remain committed to initiatives that promote equitable access to opportunities for women and girls and strengthen our democracy.
“I commend the National Association of Women Judges of Nigeria for hosting this regional conference. Your sustained commitment to promoting judicial excellence, gender equity, and access to justice continues to inspire both the legal community and the wider society,” she added.
The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, whose speech was read by the Solicitor-General of the Federation, Mrs Beatrice Jedy-Agba, noted that the role of women judges extends beyond the courtroom.
He pledged Nigeria’s commitment to advancing judicial reforms that champion gender inclusivity.
The AGF argued that Nigeria had already broken the glass ceiling through the appointment of women into critical positions.
Likewise, the minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, in his goodwill message, said the President Tinubu-led administration would continue to provide basic infrastructure that would not only enhance the justice sector but also lend dignity to the bench.
Noting that the federal government has built over 400 befitting residences for judicial officers in Abuja, the FCT Minister said the gesture was not politically motivated but was done in furtherance of good governance.
“We are not playing politics with justice,” he insisted.
In her welcome address, the President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem — who also serves as President of the National Association of Women Judges of Nigeria (NAWJN), organisers of the conference — noted that in a rapidly evolving global landscape characterised by complex legal challenges, technological advancements, and increasing public expectations, the judiciary must continue to uphold the highest standards of integrity, competence, fairness, and accountability.
“The Women Judges of Nigeria, as host of this important regional gathering, remain firmly committed to advancing judicial capacity, promoting gender equality within the judiciary, and fostering collaboration among women judges across Africa and beyond,” she added.
Among the dignitaries at the opening ceremony were heads of courts from different African countries; serving and retired Justices of the Supreme Court; Justices of the Court of Appeal; Judges of High Courts; the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA); as well as the wives of the governors of Abia and Imo states, Mrs Priscilla Chidinma Otti and Mrs Chioma Uzodimma, respectively.
