Dabiri-Erewa Congratulates Prof Dapo Akande On Election As Judge Of International Court Of Justice ICJ

Dabiri-Erewa Congratulates Prof Dapo Akande On Election As Judge Of International Court Of Justice ICJ

By Prestige News | November 14, 2026

Abuja, Nov. 14, 2026:

Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman and CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, NiDCOM, has congratulated Prof. Dapo Akande on his election as a Judge of the International Court of Justice, ICJ, the principal judicial organ of the United Nations, UN.

Dabiri-Erewa described his election as a remarkable achievement and a source of pride, noting that his distinguished career in international law reflects the valuable contributions Nigerians continue to make on the global stage.

She wished him a successful and impactful tenure.

Who Is Prof Dapo Akande?

Prof. Dapo Akande is one of Nigeria’s most respected scholars in international law.

Over the years, he has built a distinguished career teaching, researching and advising on international law, human rights, and international criminal law.

His election to the ICJ is seen as recognition of his years of hard work, scholarship and service to international justice.

What Is The International Court Of Justice?

The International Court of Justice, ICJ, is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations.

It is based in The Hague, Netherlands, and it settles legal disputes between countries and gives advisory opinions on legal questions referred to it by the UN and its agencies.

Only 15 judges sit on the court at a time, making election to the ICJ one of the highest honours for any international lawyer in the world.

When Was Prof Akande Elected?

Prof. Akande was elected on November 3, 2026, by the UN General Assembly and Security Council for a nine-year term beginning from February 6, 2027.

To be elected, a candidate must secure an absolute majority in both the General Assembly and the Security Council. His victory shows the confidence the international community has in Nigeria and in his capacity.

Why Dabiri-Erewa’s Congratulatory Message Matters

Dabiri-Erewa said Akande’s election is not just a personal victory, but a victory for Nigeria and for Nigerians in diaspora.

She noted that Nigerians continue to make valuable contributions on the global stage, from law to medicine, technology, academia, sports and business.

She said Akande’s success is a source of pride for all Nigerians at home and abroad.

She wished him a successful and impactful tenure as he prepares to take his seat in February 2027.

What Nigerians Are Saying

Many Nigerians have taken to social media to celebrate Prof. Akande’s election, describing it as a proud moment for the country.

Others say his election will give Nigeria a stronger voice in international law and global justice.

What Happens Next?

Prof. Akande will begin his nine-year term on February 6, 2027, at the ICJ in The Hague.

He is expected to join other judges to hear cases involving states, interpret international treaties, and give advisory opinions that shape international law.

For Nigeria, this is a big win. For the diaspora, it is another proof that Nigerian excellence is global.

Congratulations to Prof. Dapo Akande.

Drop your congratulatory message in the comments. Share this good news to celebrate Nigeria.

The statement was signed by Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Head of Media, Public Relations and Protocols Unit, NiDCOM.