RismadarVoice Reporters
June 9, 2026
The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has called for increased appointment of women to leadership positions within the judiciary, stressing that gender inclusion is essential for effective justice delivery and institutional credibility.
Speaking at the opening of the International Association of Women Judges African Conference in Abuja, the CJN said greater female representation on the bench broadens judicial perspectives, reduces unconscious bias, enriches legal reasoning, and strengthens public confidence in the justice system.
Justice Kekere-Ekun noted that while progress has been made in increasing the number of women within the judiciary, significant gaps remain at leadership and top decision-making levels. She argued that a judiciary that reflects the diversity of society is better equipped to deliver fair and inclusive justice.
She emphasised that gender equality in the judiciary is not merely about representation but about strengthening the legitimacy of judicial institutions. According to her, diversity enhances judicial deliberations and improves the overall quality of justice.
The CJN also advocated sustained mentorship programmes to prepare future generations of female judicial officers, urging leaders in the legal profession to support and guide younger women aspiring to leadership roles.
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who attended the conference as a special guest, described the judiciary as a cornerstone of democracy and the rule of law. She commended women judges across Africa for breaking barriers and creating opportunities for future generations.
Senator Tinubu said women bring valuable perspectives to the administration of justice and reaffirmed her commitment to promoting equal opportunities for women and girls in leadership positions.
The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), represented by the Solicitor-General of the Federation, Mrs Beatrice Jedy-Agba, pledged continued support for judicial reforms that promote gender inclusivity.
Similarly, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, assured participants that the Federal Government would continue investing in infrastructure to strengthen the justice sector, noting that over 400 residential units had been built for judicial officers in Abuja.
President of the Court of Appeal and President of the National Association of Women Judges of Nigeria, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, said the judiciary must continue to uphold integrity, competence, accountability, and fairness in the face of evolving legal and societal challenges.
The conference brought together judicial leaders, judges, legal practitioners, and policymakers from across Africa to discuss strategies for promoting excellence in the administration of justice and advancing gender equality within the judiciary.
