President Bola Tinubu has officially sworn in Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the 23rd Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) in an acting capacity.
The ceremony took place on Friday, August 23, 2024, at the Council Chambers of the State House in Abuja.
Justice Kekere-Ekun took her oath of office at approximately 11:38 am and assumed her position to the left of President Tinubu at 11:45 am.
Her appointment follows the retirement of the previous CJN, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, and her nomination by the National Judicial Council (NJC) on August 15, 2024.
The new acting CJN’s appointment marks a significant milestone as she becomes only the second female to hold this prestigious position in Nigeria’s history.
The first was Justice Aloma Mariam Mukhtar, who served from July 2012 to November 2014.
The swearing-in ceremony was attended by numerous dignitaries, including fellow Justices of the Supreme Court, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and representatives from the House of Representatives led by House Leader Julius Ihonbvere. Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwoolu and the immediate past CJN, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, were also present.
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Other notable attendees included Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila, and Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris.
Justice Kekere-Ekun’s appointment is subject to confirmation by the Senate before she can assume the role of CJN in a permanent capacity.
Her swearing-in as acting CJN ensures continuity in the leadership of Nigeria’s judiciary during this transition period.
