By George Ozalla
The Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission, Dr Tony Ojukwu, SAN, has called for increased representation of women in the judiciary as Nigeria joins the rest of the world to commemorate the 2026 International Day of Women Judges.
Ojukwu made the call in a statement to mark the global observance held annually on March 10, stressing that the presence of women on the bench remains critical to strengthening justice systems and expanding access to justice.
According to a statement signed by the Director of Corporate Affairs and External Linkages of the Commission, Fatimah Agwai Mohammed, the NHRC boss noted that the commemoration provides an opportunity to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women in the judiciary while also reflecting on the progress made toward advancing gender equality within the justice sector.
Speaking on the theme of this year’s celebration, Women Judges on the Bench and Beyond: Protecting Access to Justice, Ojukwu said the participation of women in the judiciary enhances the credibility and inclusiveness of justice institutions.
He explained that when the composition of the courts reflects the diversity of the society they serve, public confidence in the rule of law is strengthened and justice delivery becomes more responsive to the needs of citizens.
The Senior Advocate of Nigeria observed that despite significant progress recorded globally, women remain underrepresented in many judicial institutions, particularly in leadership positions.
He therefore stressed the need for sustained and deliberate efforts to dismantle structural barriers that continue to limit the participation of women in the legal and judicial professions.
Ojukwu noted that women judges across the world have consistently demonstrated professionalism, resilience and courage in the discharge of their responsibilities, adding that their leadership continues to inspire younger generations of female lawyers and aspiring judicial officers.
He also highlighted that the influence of women judges extends beyond courtroom adjudication, pointing out that many of them serve as mentors, advocates and defenders of justice within their communities.
According to him, women in the judiciary have played significant roles in advancing the protection of human rights, particularly in cases involving gender-based violence, discrimination and the protection of vulnerable persons.
The NHRC Executive Secretary reaffirmed the commitment of the Commission to promoting gender equality within Nigeria’s justice system while working to ensure greater access to justice for all citizens.
He called for stronger policy frameworks and institutional initiatives that will encourage the advancement of women within the judiciary and the broader legal profession.
Ojukwu also emphasised the need to expand mentorship opportunities for young female lawyers, address gender bias within justice institutions and create an enabling environment that allows women to thrive in leadership roles within the judicial system.
He commended women judges in Nigeria and across the world for their dedication to the rule of law and their continued efforts in safeguarding the rights and dignity of individuals.
The International Day of Women Judges was established by the United Nations General Assembly to recognise the contributions of women in the judiciary and to promote increased representation of women at all levels of judicial leadership across the world.
