The Nigerian Government has reiterated its commitment to promoting qualified African representation in international institutions.
The commitment was made following a courtesy visit by Kenya’s candidate for the International Criminal Court, ICC’s election, Lady Justice Njoki Ndung’u to Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in Abuja.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Ahmed, received the Kenyan delegation led by the High Commissioner of the Republic of Kenya to Nigeria, Isaac Keen Parashina.
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Lady Justice Ndung’u is a Judge of the Supreme Court of Kenya and Kenya’s nominee for the forthcoming ICC judicial elections scheduled for December 2026.
The visit was aimed at formally presenting Justice Ndung’u’s candidature and seeking Nigeria’s support in the elections, during which Africa is expected to secure two seats on the Court.
During the meeting, Justice Ndung’u highlighted her distinguished legal and judicial career spanning more than three decades.
She outlined her extensive experience in criminal law, having served as a prosecutor, legal adviser to the African Union, Member of Parliament, and Judge of Kenya’s Supreme Court for the past fifteen years.
She also emphasised her contributions to gender justice and victims’ rights, noting her role in the enactment of Kenya’s Sexual Offences Act as well as legislation promoting maternity and paternity leave.
According to her, these initiatives have strengthened the protection of vulnerable groups and advanced social justice in Kenya.
Justice Ndung’u further shared Kenya’s experience in judicial innovation, citing the successful implementation of a fully virtual Supreme Court system that has enhanced efficiency and access to justice.
Boost Confidence
Speaking on the importance of the International Criminal Court, she stressed the need for competent, courageous, and experienced African judges who can strengthen the Court’s relationship with African states and boost confidence in international justice mechanisms.
She maintained that her legal, legislative, and diplomatic background would enable her to make meaningful contributions to the work of the Court if elected.
In his remarks, Ambassador Ahmed commended Justice Ndung’u’s impressive professional achievements and qualifications, describing her record as remarkable.
He also acknowledged the longstanding cordial relations between Nigeria and Kenya, noting the tradition of mutual support between both countries in international and multilateral engagements.
The Permanent Secretary reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to advancing capable African representation in global institutions and assured the Kenyan delegation that the request for support would receive due consideration through the appropriate diplomatic channels.
The meeting underscored the growing cooperation between Nigeria and Kenya and their shared commitment to strengthening Africa’s voice and influence within international governance and justice institutions.
