The House of Representatives has thrown its weight behind the candidacy of Nigerian-born international law scholar, Dapo Akande, for election to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for the 2027–2036 term.
The endorsement was announced on Wednesday by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, during a courtesy visit by Akande and officials of the British High Commission to the National Assembly in Abuja.
Kalu described Akande’s nomination by the United Kingdom as a significant recognition of the contributions of Nigerians to global legal scholarship and international justice, emphasizing that Africa’s representation on the world’s highest judicial bench is a matter of fairness and equity.
According to the Deputy Speaker, Akande’s rise from studying law in Nigeria to becoming a leading figure in international law demonstrates the country’s capacity to produce world-class professionals capable of shaping global institutions.
He noted that Akande’s distinguished career includes serving as Chichele Professor of Public International Law at Oxford University, counsel before international courts and tribunals, membership of the United Nations International Law Commission, and co-authorship of the renowned Oppenheim’s International Law.
Kalu said the House was proud to identify with Akande’s achievements, stressing that his candidacy sends a powerful message to Nigerians in the diaspora that excellence nurtured in Nigeria can attain global recognition.
The Deputy Speaker also commended the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for strengthening Nigeria’s diplomatic engagement across the world and urged the Federal Government to mobilise its diplomatic networks, including its influence within the African Union, ECOWAS and the United Nations General Assembly, in support of Akande’s election bid.
He expressed confidence that the Nigerian-born scholar possesses the experience, credibility and global outlook required to contribute meaningfully to the ICJ at a time when the court is handling an unprecedented number of cases involving armed conflicts, genocide and international disputes.
Kalu further charged Akande to champion fairness and consistency in international justice if elected, noting that developing nations, particularly in Africa, require judges who appreciate the practical impact of international law on peace, security and development.
Earlier, Akande said he was in Nigeria to seek the country’s support for his candidacy. He praised Nigeria’s commitment to the rule of law and constitutional democracy, while acknowledging the role of the National Assembly in strengthening democratic governance.
The renowned legal scholar pledged to continue promoting the rule of law and the principles of international justice if elected to the ICJ, assuring that he would work to strengthen confidence in global legal institutions.
The ICJ, based in The Hague, serves as the principal judicial organ of the United Nations and is responsible for resolving disputes between states and providing advisory opinions on international legal questions.
