Tinubu to swear in Justice Kekere-Ekun as CJN

This was announced today by Ajuri Ngelale, the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity.

The swearing-in ceremony will be held at the Council Chambers of the State House in Abuja, the nation’s capital.

Justice Kekere-Ekun will take over from Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, who retired yesterday upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 70.

President Tinubu gave his congratulations to Justice Ariwoola, lauding his “successful public service career” and commending his contributions to the judiciary and the nation.

“President Bola Tinubu congratulates Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, GCON, on his retirement as Chief Justice of Nigeria after a distinguished career in public service,” the statement read.

“President Tinubu will swear in his successor at the State House Council Chambers on August 23, 2024.”

The President commended Justice Ariwoola for his impactful leadership and efforts to enhance Nigerian jurisprudence and strengthen the legal framework.

Justice Ariwoola previously served as a Justice of the Court of Appeal in Kaduna, Enugu, and Lagos before being elevated to the Supreme Court in 2011.

He was appointed Chief Justice of Nigeria on September 21, 2022, by former President Muhammadu Buhari, and held various judicial roles throughout his career.

Last week, the National Judicial Council (NJC) recommended Justice Kekere-Ekun to President Tinubu as Ariwoola’s successor.

According to NJC spokesman Soji Oye, this recommendation was made during the Council’s 106th meeting, which was chaired by Justice Olukayode Ariwoola.