JUST IN: President Tinubu Returns to Nigeria from France

President Bola Tinubu has returned to Nigeria after a visit to France, landing in Abuja, the nation’s capital, in the early hours of Friday. His return marks the beginning of an important day for the Nigerian judiciary as he is scheduled to swear in the new Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN).

Today, President Tinubu will officially appoint Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the new Chief Justice. Justice Kekere-Ekun was nominated for this position by the National Judicial Council (NJC). She is set to succeed the outgoing Chief Justice, Olukayode Ariwoola, who is retiring after a distinguished tenure.

Justice Kekere-Ekun has built a remarkable career in the Nigerian judiciary. She began her judicial career as a Senior Magistrate II in Lagos State, where she gained significant experience and expertise. She then served as a State High Court Judge before becoming the Chairperson of the Robbery and Firearms Tribunal, Zone II, in Ikeja.

Her contributions to the judiciary were further recognized when she was appointed to the Court of Appeal in 2004. In 2013, she reached the pinnacle of her career by becoming a Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.

The swearing-in of Justice Kekere-Ekun is a significant event for the Nigerian judiciary. As the new Chief Justice, she will play a crucial role in leading the judicial system and addressing various legal and administrative challenges. The appointment reflects a continued effort to ensure that the judiciary operates with integrity and effectiveness, which is essential for maintaining public confidence in the legal system.

President Tinubu’s return to Nigeria follows a brief trip to Paris, where he utilized the newly acquired Airbus A330. This aircraft is a replacement for the old Boeing B737-700 (BBJ), which had been in use since the presidency of Olusegun Obasanjo. The new Airbus A330 represents a modern upgrade and aligns with President Tinubu’s focus on enhancing the efficiency of governmental operations.

During his visit to Paris, President Tinubu likely engaged in various diplomatic and administrative activities, further strengthening Nigeria’s international relations. The trip underscored the administration’s commitment to updating and maintaining modern infrastructure to support official functions.

With the new Chief Justice set to take office, the Nigerian judiciary faces a new chapter under Justice Kekere-Ekun’s leadership. Her appointment is expected to bring fresh perspectives and continued efforts to uphold justice and reform within the judicial system. The transition to new leadership in the judiciary is a key moment for ensuring that Nigeria’s legal system remains robust and capable of addressing the needs of its citizens.

The swearing-in ceremony today will be closely watched by legal professionals, government officials, and the public, marking an important step in the ongoing development of Nigeria’s judicial system.