President Bola Tinubu Returns From France, Swears In New CJN

President Bola Tinubu has returned to Nigeria after a three-day work stay in France, arriving at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja at 2:25 am on Friday. 

He was welcomed back to swear in the new Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun.

The President had departed Abuja for France on Monday for a “brief work stay,” according to his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale.

Ngelale stated, “The President will return to the country after his brief work stay in France.”

Justice Kekere-Ekun replaces Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, who retired after reaching the mandatory age of 70.

The National Judicial Council recommended Justice Kekere-Ekun for the position after its 106th meeting.

President Tinubu commended Justice Ariwoola who was sworn in as the Chief Justice of Nigeria in 2022, for his dedication to public service, describing his over three-decade career as “successful public service career,”.

He also acknowledged the significance of the transition, ensuring a seamless handover of leadership in the judiciary.

The President will swear in Justice Ariwoola’s successor at the State House Council Chambers on August 23, 2024.”

Justice Kekere-Ekun will serve as acting Chief Justice of Nigeria until her confirmation by the Senate and she is expected to lead the judiciary with integrity and expertise until her retirement in 2028.

She is set to be sworn in on Friday to assume her official position.