Nigerian law Professor Dapo Akande elected ICJ Judge

Nigerian-British law professor, Dapo Akande, has been elected a judge of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), marking a major achievement for Nigeria in the international legal community.

Akande's election to the United Nations' highest judicial body adds to his outstanding record in international law, legal education and dispute resolution.

He is the Chichele Professor of Public International Law at the University of Oxford, a Fellow of All Souls College and a member of the United Nations International Law Commission.

The renowned legal scholar obtained his Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Ife in 1992 before qualifying as a barrister and solicitor in Nigeria in 1993.

He later established himself on the international stage through academic research, legal practice and dispute resolution. Over the years, he has provided legal advice to governments and international organisations and participated in proceedings before several international courts and tribunals.

Nigeria's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Jimoh Ibrahim, welcomed the development and congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the achievement.

Ibrahim described Akande's election as another major accomplishment for Nigeria within the United Nations system.

He also noted that Nigeria was yet to fulfil one of its remaining ambitions at the global organisation, which is securing a seat on the United Nations Security Council.

Akande was nominated for the position by the United Kingdom. He is expected to begin his nine-year tenure at the International Court of Justice in February 2027, serving until 2036.