The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Ibrahim Tanko Mohammad, has described women judges in Nigeria as some of the best in the world.
The CJN stated this while declaring open the Biennial Conference of the National Association of Women Judges, NAWJN, in Abuja, Nigeria’s Capital.
Justice Tanko said the contribution of women in the justice system in Nigeria is crucial in repositioning the sector as they work hard to carve a niche for themselves.
He also described as heartwarming the increasing numbers of women judges in the country.
According to him “Women judges in Nigeria have got what their male counterparts do not have which is thoroughness and meticulous in the discharge of their responsibilities.’’
Justice Tanko who was represented at the event by Justice Bode Rhodes-Vivour also said that the expertise of women judges in the country cannot be doubted hence urged them not to relent.
He commended the President of the association, Justice Mary Odili for her visionary leadership that took the association to an enviable height.
in her remarks, the President, National Association of Women Judges in Nigeria, NAWJN, Justice Mary Odili noted that the challenges faced by women in the work environment particularly judges in Nigeria are worthy of consideration.
Justice Odili also said that as a developing nation, the place of women is still being confused and misunderstood.
According to her, ‘‘The topic, The Woman: Her Workplace, was carefully chosen to engage the minds, inform, prepare and equip female justices and judges on the imperatives of understanding and being in command of the work environment.
She added that ‘‘as the country look forward to the 35 percent affirmative action needed for women to prepare themselves to take up more responsibilities, it is imperative to pursue it with vigour.’’
The Minister of Women Affairs, Pauline Tallen urged female judges in Nigeria to promote an active and visible policy in mainstreaming a gender perspective when addressing issues of human rights.
She also charged female judges in the country to uphold standards in the discharge of their duties to earn public trust which, she said, is critical to the rule of law.
‘‘The theme of the workshop is apt as it calls for prompt and quality intervention especially at a time violence against women and girls, economic displacement, insecurity, COVID-19 and climate change are causing an increasing level of uncertainty and fear around the country.’’ The Minister said.
The Minister added that the event enhances the legitimacy of courts, sending a strong signal that the women judges in Nigeria are open and accessible to those who seek recourse to justice.
Zainab Sa’id
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