After a remarkable judicial career spanning several decades, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, the 22nd Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), has officially retired from service.
Born on August 22, 1954, Justice Ariwoola reached the mandatory retirement age of 70, marking the end of an illustrious chapter in Nigeria’s judicial history.
Justice Ariwoola’s journey to the pinnacle of Nigeria’s judiciary began on November 22, 2011, when he was appointed to the Supreme Court bench.
He later became the substantive CJN on June 27, 2022, following the resignation of his predecessor, Justice Tanko Muhammad. His appointment was formally confirmed by the Nigerian Senate on September 21, 2022.
As Justice Ariwoola bids farewell to the judiciary, his legacy of excellence and dedication to upholding the rule of law will be remembered for years to come. His retirement marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s judicial history, paving the way for a new era of leadership.
As events marking his retirement unfold at the Supreme Court, speculation is rife that Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun may be named as his successor, making her the new Chief Justice of Nigeria. If confirmed, she will become the second female CJN in Nigeria’s history, breaking new ground for women in the judiciary.
As Nigeria’s judiciary enters a new chapter, we reflect on the significance of Justice Ariwoola’s retirement and the implications for the future of the judiciary.
