President Bola Tinubu is set to swear in Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the new Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) today (Friday). Tinubu, who had been on a private visit to France, returned to the country on Thursday evening, cutting his trip short to perform the swearing-in ceremony.
This development was confirmed by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who noted that Tinubu interrupted his visit to ensure the swearing-in could take place as scheduled. The ceremony is set to occur at 11 a.m. at the Council Chamber of the Aso Rock Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Justice Kekere-Ekun, the most senior Justice of the Supreme Court, was recommended by the National Judicial Council (NJC) last week to head the Judiciary. She succeeds Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, who retired on Thursday after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 70. Kekere-Ekun, 66, will serve as acting CJN pending her confirmation by the Senate and is expected to serve until her retirement in 2028.
In a statement released Thursday, Tinubu expressed his appreciation for Justice Ariwoola’s service, commending his leadership and contributions to Nigerian jurisprudence. The outgoing CJN signed off on new Supreme Court Rules 2024 earlier this month as one of his final acts in office, aiming to modernize the judiciary’s operations.
During his valedictory speech, Justice Ariwoola reflected on his tenure, highlighting the significant challenges he faced and the reforms implemented to enhance the judiciary’s efficiency. He also acknowledged the support of his fellow justices and key stakeholders in the legal community.
