Deputy Speaker, Kalu Hails Dapo Akande’s Election as ICJ Judge, Says Victory Boosts Africa’s Global Voice

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has congratulated Nigerian-born Professor Dapo Akande on his election as a judge of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), describing the development as a major achievement for Nigeria and Africa.

Kalu said Akande’s election to the United Nations’ principal judicial organ would strengthen Africa’s representation and influence at the highest level of international justice.

In a congratulatory statement, the Deputy Speaker described the Oxford University professor as a distinguished legal scholar whose achievement reflects Nigeria’s intellectual excellence and growing contributions to the international community.

He recalled receiving Akande at the National Assembly on June 3, 2026, alongside officials of the British High Commission, when the professor visited as the United Kingdom’s candidate for election to the ICJ.

According to Kalu, he expressed strong support for Akande’s candidacy during the visit, noting that the nomination of a Nigerian-born scholar to the world’s highest judicial bench represented more than symbolic recognition.

He had described the development as a reflection of a shared legal destiny, stressing that Africa’s representation in international judicial institutions was essential to ensuring fairness and justice in global affairs.

The Deputy Speaker said Akande’s eventual victory was a testament to his professional accomplishments and the quality of expertise Nigeria continues to contribute to the global community.

Professor Akande, a Nigerian-trained lawyer and Professor of Public International Law at the University of Oxford, was elected on November 3, 2026, by the United Nations General Assembly and Security Council to serve a nine-year term on the 15-member International Court of Justice.

Kalu expressed confidence that Akande’s extensive experience, deep understanding of international law and commitment to justice would significantly contribute to the work of the court and the promotion of the rule of law across the world.

“I am very delighted to extend heartfelt congratulations to our own Professor Dapo Akande on his election to the International Court of Justice.

“Professor Akande’s victory is a testament to the excellence that Nigeria continues to offer the world. It also strengthens Africa’s presence and voice at the world’s highest judicial bench,” Kalu said.

He added that the professor’s expertise and dedication to justice would bring considerable value to the court’s responsibilities in resolving international legal disputes and advancing peaceful relations among nations.

The Deputy Speaker further congratulated Akande on behalf of the House of Representatives, describing his election as a moment of pride for Nigeria and a remarkable achievement worthy of celebration across the African continent.

“Nigeria is proud of you, and Africa celebrates this remarkable achievement with you,” he said.