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The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has called for the involvement of more women in the leadership of the nation’s Judiciary.

Justice Kekere-Ekun argued that the involvement of more women would enrich the administration of justice in many ways, including  broadening jurisprudential perspectives, reducing unconscious biases and
strengthening public confidence in legal institutions.

She spoke in Abuja on Tuesday during the opening session of the  2026 African Regional Conference of the International Association of Women Judges (IAWJ), with the theme, “Promoting Excellence in the Administration
of Justice.”

The CJN spoke about a number of factors that could contribute to the attainment of excellence in the administration of justice in any society.

Justice Kekere-Ekun said: “Excellence in the administration of justice also requires a thoughtful examination of the relationship between gender equality and the legal
system.

“The full and effective participation of women within the Judiciary has far-reaching implications for justice delivery.
Over the years, we have witnessed encouraging progress in the representation of women within Judiciaries across the world.

“Nevertheless, 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 decisionmaking.

“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.

“Ultimately, gender inclusion must be viewed as an indispensable component of the Judiciary’s commitment to fairness, equality, and the rule of law,” the CJN said.

Justice Kekere-Ekun added that excellence in the administration of justice could also be measured by the quality of judicial reasoning, the integrity of judicial officers, the fairness of judicial processes, and the confidence that citizens repose in the courts as impartial arbiters of disputes.

She noted that excellence is ultimately reflected in the ability of the Judiciary to uphold the Constitution, protect the vulnerable, preserve the rule of law, and dispense justice without fear, favour, affection or ill will.

She also identified judicial education as another factor that could contribute to the attainment of excellence in the administration of justice.

The CJN said: “Beyond enhancing professional competence, judicial education reinforces the rule of law, preserves the integrity of legal institutions, and equips judicial officers with the knowledge and skills necessary to address emerging legal challenges.

“Ultimately, continuous judicial training fosters a more responsive, efficient, and impartial justice system capable of sustaining public confidence in democratic governance.

“Professional development is therefore not a luxury but a necessity. It is an indispensable requirement for any Judiciary committed to excellence,” she said.

The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who featured as a special guest, noted that the Judiciary was central to the preservation of the rule of law in every democratic society.

Senator Tinubu urged participants at the event, who are from different African countries, not to relent in building judicial systems that are transparent, compassionate and firmly anchored on the rule of law.

She said: “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.

“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.

“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.

“As a former Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I understand the challenges women face while aspiring for leadership positions. This is why I remain committed to initiatives that promote equitable access to opportunities for women and girls and strengthen our democracy.

“I commend the National Association of Women Judges of Nigeria (NAWJN)  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,” the First Lady said.

The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) said  the role of women judges extends beyond the courtroom and pledged country’s commitment to advancing judicial reforms that champion gender inclusivity.

Represented by the Solicitor-General of the Federation, Mrs. Beatrice Jedy-Agba, Fagbemi argued that the country had already broken the glass ceiling through the appointment of women into important positions

The President of the Court of Appeal (PCA), Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem (who is also the  President of the NAWJN), said the Judiciary must continue to uphold the highest standards of integrity, competence, fairness, and accountability in a rapidly evolving global landscape characterised by complex legal challenges, technological advancements and increasing public expectations.

Justice Dongban-Mensem added the country’s female judges, whose association is hosting the conference, are firmly committed to advancing judicial capacity, promoting gender equality within the judiciary, and fostering collaboration among women judges across the continent and beyond.

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, said the President Bola Tinubu-led administration will continue to provide basic infrastructure that would not only enhance the justice sector but also lend dignity to the bench.

Wike, who said the Federal Government has built over 400 befitting residences for judges in Abuja, added that the gesture was not politically motivated but done in furtherance of good governance.