President Tinubu Writes Senate, Seeks Confirmation of Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as CJN

Abuja – President Bola Tinubu has written to the Senate, seeking the screening and subsequent confirmation of Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN).

President Tinubu’s letter was read on Tuesday by the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, upon resumption from the annual break.

The letter reads:

“Pursuant to Section 231(1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as amended, which gives the President the power to appoint the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) on the recommendation of the National Judicial Commission (NJC) and subject to confirmation of the Nigerian Senate.

“I have the honour to forward the nomination of Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun CON for confirmation as CJN.

“While it is my hope that this request will receive expeditious consideration and confirmation of the Senate, please accept, distinguished Senate President, the assurances of my highest consideration and personal regards.”

Justice Kekere-Ekun was sworn in as the 23rd Chief Justice of Nigeria on August 23, 2024, by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the State House, Abuja.

With the swearing-in, Kekere-Ekun was expected to operate in an acting capacity until confirmation by the Senate. She took her Oaths around 11:38 am.

Justice Kekere-Ekun is the second female Justice to hold the position, after Justice Aloma Mariam Mukhtar, who was the Chief Justice of Nigeria between July 2012 and November 2014.

Born on May 7, 1958, in London, United Kingdom, Justice Kekere-Ekun commenced her legal profession at the University of Lagos, where she obtained her first degree in law in 1980.

After completing the Nigeria Law School, she was called to the Nigerian Bar on July 10, 1981.

The Senate’s confirmation is required to solidify her position as CJN. This development is a significant step in Nigeria’s judicial leadership, and the Senate’s decision will be closely watched.