First Lady: Judiciary Is Central to Sustaining Rule of Law

• CJN: Judiciary occupies unique place in democracy, derives its authority from its impartiality, integrity, and fidelity to the law

Senator Oluremi Tinubu, wife of the President, stated that the judiciary is essential to maintaining the rule of law in a democratic society.

She spoke on Tuesday in Abuja at the opening of the International Association of Women Judges African Regional Conference, which was themed “Promoting Excellence in the Administration of Justice.”

Mrs. Tinubu noted that the judiciary is the institution where justice and fairness are upheld and citizens’ rights are protected.

She also highlighted the value that women bring to the bench.

According to her, “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.”

“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.”

Mrs. Tinubu praised the Association for Women Judges for its sustained commitment to promoting judicial excellence, gender equity, and access to justice, calling it an inspiration to the legal community and society at large.

Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere‑Ekun, also spoke at the event. She explained that the administration of justice is not an abstract ideal but a foundational cornerstone of societal and institutional stability, extending beyond the operational functions of courts and their procedural workflows.

Kekere‑Ekun added that the judiciary not only guarantees good governance but also shapes the equity and equality of existing systems.

She said, “The judiciary occupies a unique position within democratic governance. Unlike the Executive, it commands no army. Unlike the Legislature, it controls no public purse.”

“Yet its authority derives from something far more enduring and that is the confidence of the people in its impartiality, integrity and fidelity to the law. It is, therefore, incumbent upon all judicial officers to ensure that every action, every decision, and every interaction strengthens rather than diminishes that confidence.”

“Consequently, fostering excellence within the judicial framework demands efficiency, transparency, accountability, accessibility, and unwavering commitment to ethical standards.”

Kekere‑Ekun emphasized that while digital transformation offers unprecedented opportunities for efficiency, it must never eclipse the human dimension of justice.

She said, “Behind every case file is a human story; behind every legal dispute are individuals, families, communities, and institutions whose lives may be profoundly affected by judicial decisions.”

“Technology may assist judicial processes, but that lies at the heart of judicial decision‑making.”

Other remarks were made by representatives of the Chief Justice of Kenya, the President of the Court of Appeal of Nigeria, and additional participants.