Judiciary should appoint more women to tackle gender inequality – CJN

By Ikechukwu Nnochiri, ABUJA

Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Justice Kudirat Kekere‑Ekun called for an increase in the appointment of women to senior judicial roles during the opening ceremony of the International Association of Women Judges African Conference. She argued that greater female representation would significantly improve the delivery of justice across the country.

Speaking at the event, the CJN emphasized that excellence in justice administration requires a careful examination of how gender equality intersects with the legal system. “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,” she said.

Justice Kekere‑Ekun acknowledged progress in female representation worldwide but warned that the Nigerian judiciary must not be limited by the very inequalities it seeks 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,” she added.

She further stated, “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.”

Justice Kekere‑Ekun noted that 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,” she said.

She urged the adoption of strategic, enduring mentorship initiatives to 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,” she remarked.

Justice Kekere‑Ekun concluded, “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.”

During her address, President Bola Tinubu’s wife, Oluremi, a special guest at the event held at the Body of Benchers complex in Abuja, highlighted the judiciary’s central role in sustaining the rule of law in democratic societies. She described the conference theme—“Promoting Excellence in the Administration of Justice”—as timely and significant, urging participants from across Africa 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,” she said. “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.”

Oluremi added, “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.”

She noted her experience as a former senator and her commitment to initiatives that promote equitable access to opportunities for women and girls, thereby strengthening 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, had his speech read by the Solicitor‑General of the Federation, Mrs Beatrice Jedy‑Agba. He emphasized that the role of women judges extends beyond the courtroom and pledged Nigeria’s commitment to advancing judicial reforms that champion gender inclusivity. He noted that Nigeria had already broken the glass ceiling through the appointment of women into critical positions.

In a goodwill message, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, 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. He highlighted that the federal government has built over 400 befitting residences for judicial officers in Abuja, stating the gesture was made in furtherance of good governance and not for political reasons. “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) and organizer of the conference—stressed that in a rapidly evolving global landscape characterized 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.

The opening ceremony was attended by heads of courts from various 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.

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