INTERNATIONAL DAY OF WOMEN JUDGES, 2026 – STATEMENT BY THE HONOURABLE THE CHIEF JUSTICE OF NIGERIA
HON. JUSTICE KUDIRAT MOTONMORI OLATOKUNBO KEKERE-EKUN, GCON
Today, we join the international community in commemorating the International Day of Women Judges, a day set aside by the United Nations to recognize and celebrate the invaluable contributions of women to the administration of justice across the world.
This occasion provides an important opportunity to acknowledge the remarkable strides made by women within the judiciary, as well as the profound impact they continue to have in strengthening the rule of law, promoting fairness, and enhancing public confidence in judicial institutions.
In Nigeria, we take particular pride in the growing presence and influence of women on the Bench at all levels of our judicial system. Their dedication, intellectual rigour, integrity, and commitment to justice have significantly enriched the quality of judicial decision-making and strengthened the administration of justice in our country. Over the past year in particular, the Nigerian judiciary has recorded notable milestones that underscore the growing impact of women within our justice system. The Supreme Court continues to benefit from the contributions of distinguished female Justices, while across the country, women serve with distinction as Heads of Courts, Presiding Justices, and judicial administrators advancing reforms and improving the efficiency of court processes.
As the second female Chief Justice of Nigeria, I am especially mindful of the path paved by many distinguished women who have served with honour and distinction within our courts. Their courage, resilience, and excellence have helped to broaden opportunities for future generations of women in the legal profession and the judiciary.
The presence of women on the Bench is not simply a matter of representation; it strengthens the legitimacy, inclusiveness, and credibility of the justice system. A judiciary that reflects the diversity of society is better positioned to understand the lived experiences of the people it serves and to dispense justice with fairness, sensitivity, and balance.
However, while we celebrate these achievements, we must also reaffirm our collective commitment to nurturing the next generation of women within the justice sector. This includes encouraging mentorship, expanding opportunities for professional development, and ensuring that merit, competence, and integrity remain the guiding principles in judicial appointments and career advancement.
On this special day, I therefore commend all women judges across Nigeria for your unwavering dedication to the ideals of justice, fairness, and the rule of law.
May your service continue to inspire generations to come.
Hon. Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, GCON
Chief Justice of Nigeria
March 10, 2026