Deputy Speaker Congratulates Professor Dapo Akande on ICJ Election

Hon. Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, has congratulated Professor Dapo Akande on his recent election as a judge of the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Kalu described this achievement as a proud moment for both Nigeria and Africa.

In a statement, Kalu expressed his delight in celebrating Professor Akande, who hails from Oyo State. He recalled meeting Akande, who was the United Kingdom’s candidate for the ICJ, at the National Assembly on June 3, 2026, where he showed strong support for Akande’s candidacy.

Kalu stated, “As Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, it is my honor to receive Professor Akande and to express my support for his candidacy for the ICJ for the term 2027 to 2036.” He emphasized that having a Nigerian-born scholar on the world’s highest judicial bench is a significant recognition of shared legal values.

The Deputy Speaker noted that Akande’s election reflects Nigeria’s continued excellence on the global stage and enhances Africa’s representation in international law. Professor Akande, a lawyer trained in Nigeria and a Professor of Public International Law at the University of Oxford, was elected on November 3, 2026, to serve a nine-year term on the 15-member court.

Kalu expressed confidence in Akande’s experience and knowledge of international law, stating that it would greatly benefit the court and promote justice worldwide. He concluded by extending heartfelt congratulations to Akande, saying, “Nigeria is proud of you, and Africa celebrates this remarkable achievement with you.”