Women judges and judicial leaders from across Africa have gathered in Abuja for a four-day conference aimed at strengthening justice systems, promoting judicial excellence, and advancing gender equality within the judiciary.
Held at the Body of Benchers Complex, the International Association of Women Judges (IAWJ) African Regional Conference brought together Chief Justices and Heads of Courts from several African countries to discuss reforms that would make justice systems more independent, accessible, and effective.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, stressed that greater female representation in judicial leadership is essential to building a stronger and more credible justice system.
According to her, the meaningful participation of women on the bench broadens legal perspectives, reduces unconscious bias, and strengthens public confidence in the judiciary.
Justice Kekere-Ekun acknowledged the progress made in increasing women’s representation within judicial institutions but noted that more work is needed to ensure women occupy top leadership positions.
She argued that a judiciary reflecting the diversity of society is better equipped to deliver fair judgments and maintain public trust.
The CJN also called for stronger mentorship programmes to prepare the next generation of female judicial leaders, urging senior judges to support and guide younger professionals.
She said the conference would provide an opportunity for judges across Africa to exchange ideas, share best practices, and address common challenges such as judicial independence, efficient case management, ethical leadership, and access to justice.
Chief Justice and President of the Supreme Court of Kenya, Martha Koome, represented by Justice Njoki Ndung’u, highlighted the significant contributions of women judges in family law, child protection, and gender-based violence cases.
She called for stronger collaboration among African women judges and reaffirmed Kenya’s support for women seeking leadership roles in international judicial institutions.
Representing the Attorney-General of the Federation, Beatrice Jedy-Agba said Nigeria remains committed to judicial reforms that promote gender inclusion.
She described the conference as a demonstration of the determination of African women judges to strengthen democratic institutions and remove barriers limiting women’s participation in the justice sector.
Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, also addressed participants, describing excellence in the administration of justice as both a professional obligation and a moral responsibility.
She commended women judges across Africa for breaking longstanding barriers and inspiring future generations of female legal professionals.
The President of the Court of Appeal and President of the National Association of Women Judges of Nigeria (NAWJN), Monica Dongban-Mensem, said the conference reflects the judiciary’s commitment to integrity, accountability, judicial capacity building, and gender equality.
Similarly, the President of the International Association of Women Judges, Mina Sougrati, represented by Justice Binta Nyako, said the gathering offers an important platform for women judges to exchange experiences, strengthen professional networks, and promote justice, human rights, and gender equality across Africa.
The conference concluded with renewed calls for African countries to deepen judicial reforms, strengthen public confidence in the courts, and increase the appointment of women to leadership positions within the judiciary.