First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has called on women in the judiciary across Africa to continue playing a leading role in strengthening transparent and accountable judicial systems, describing the judiciary as central to sustaining the rule of law and protecting citizens’ rights in democratic societies.

Speaking on Tuesday at the opening ceremony of the International Association of Women Judges (IAWJ) African Regional Conference in Abuja, the First Lady said the judiciary remains the institution where justice and fairness are upheld and where the rights of citizens are protected.

She noted that the growing presence of women on the bench has enriched the administration of justice by bringing broader perspectives and deeper understanding to judicial decision-making.

In a statement issued by her Senior Special Assistant on Media, Busola Kukoyi, the First Lady said “therefore, the presence of women on the Bench adds value to the judicial system by broadening perspectives and deepening understanding in the dispensation of justice”.

The First Lady praised women judges across the continent for overcoming long-standing barriers and creating opportunities for future generations of women in the legal profession.

“Across Africa, women judges have broken through long-standing barriers and by their resilience and excellence, paved the way for future generations of women in the legal profession,” she stated.

Senator Tinubu said she understood the challenges women encounter in their quest for leadership positions and reaffirmed her commitment to initiatives that promote equal opportunities for women and girls.

“I understand the challenges women face while aspiring for leadership positions, this is why I remain committed to initiatives that promote equitable access to opportunities for women and girls and strengthen our democracy,” she said.

She also commended the International Association of Women Judges for its continued efforts in promoting judicial excellence, gender equity and access to justice, describing its work as an inspiration to both the legal profession and society at large.

In her remarks, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, said the administration of justice is a foundational pillar of societal and institutional stability, extending beyond the operational functions of courts.

According to her, the judiciary plays a critical role in ensuring good governance and shaping systems founded on equity and equality.

“The Judiciary occupies a unique position within democratic governance. Unlike the Executive, it commands no army. Unlike the Legislature, it controls no public purse. Yet its authority derives from something far more enduring and that is the confidence of the people in its impartiality, integrity and fidelity to the law,” she said.

The Chief Justice stressed that judicial officers must ensure that every action and decision strengthens public confidence in the justice system, adding that excellence in the judiciary requires efficiency, transparency, accountability, accessibility and strict adherence to ethical standards.

Justice Kekere-Ekun also cautioned against allowing technological advancement to overshadow the human aspect of justice, despite the benefits of digital transformation.

“Behind every case file is a human story; behind every legal dispute are individuals, families, communities, and institutions whose lives may be profoundly affected by judicial decisions. Technology may assist judicial processes, but that lie at the heart of judicial decision-making,” she said.