The National Association of Judges of Nigeria (NAJN) has officially joined the International Association of Judges (IAJ), a move that makes Nigeria the association’s 93rd member.
The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, congratulated the NAJN on its admission, which was secured during the IAJ’s 67th Annual Meeting in Baku, Azerbaijan.
According to a statement on Monday, October 13, by the CJN’s media aide, Mr. Tobi Soniyi, Nigeria’s admission into the global body demonstrates international recognition and confidence in the Nigerian judiciary.
Before admitting NAJN, the IAJ considered some of the challenges faced by the Nigerian judiciary but also acknowledged the reforms being implemented under the leadership of Justice Kekere-Ekun.
Justice Kekere-Ekun described the admission as a moment of pride and privilege for Nigeria to join a community of judges committed to the rule of law, judicial independence, and the protection of human rights.
She said: “Nigeria embraces this membership with humility, commitment, and a deep sense of responsibility.
“We recognise the values that this association upholds, and we are determined to contribute actively to its mission.
“We are committed to further strengthening the independence of our judiciary, upholding the rule of law, and ensuring the continued protection and promotion of human rights in our country.”
The International Association of Judges was founded in Salzburg, Austria, in 1953.
It is a professional, non-political, international organisation bringing together national associations of judges — not individual judges — approved by its Central Council for admission.
Currently, the organization comprises 92 national associations or representative groups from five continents, with Nigeria now becoming the 93rd member.
It holds consultative status with the United Nations, particularly with the International Labour Office, the UN Economic and Social Council, and the Council of Europe.
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