By Our Reporter
ABUJA (PRECISE POST) – The House of Representatives has formally endorsed the candidacy of Professor Dapo Akande, a Nigerian-born international law scholar nominated by the United Kingdom 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, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, during a courtesy visit by Akande and officials of the British High Commission to the National Assembly in Abuja.
According to the statement signed by the Chief Press Secreatary to the Deputy Speaker,
Kalu described Akande’s nomination as a significant milestone not only for Nigeria but also for Africa’s representation in global judicial institutions, saying the scholar’s candidacy enjoys the admiration and support of the House.
“As Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, it is my honour to receive Professor Akande and to say clearly, as a Nigerian and as a parliamentarian, that his candidacy for the International Court of Justice for the term 2027 to 2036 is one that commands the admiration and personal support of this House,” Kalu said.
The Deputy Speaker argued that the UK’s nomination of Akande reflected more than a symbolic gesture, describing it as recognition of the deep legal and diplomatic ties between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
According to him, Africa’s presence on the world’s highest judicial bench is a matter of justice rather than sentiment, stressing that stronger African representation is essential to maintaining confidence in international legal institutions.
Kalu highlighted the long-standing cooperation between Nigeria and the UK, citing the strategic partnership signed by both countries in 2024 and Britain’s bilateral support to Nigeria. He said Akande’s nomination underscored a shared commitment to the rule of law and international justice.
Tracing Akande’s academic and professional journey, the Deputy Speaker noted that the renowned scholar began his legal career in Nigeria, earning a law degree from Obafemi Awolowo University before being called to the Nigerian Bar. He described Akande’s rise to become Chichele Professor of Public International Law at Oxford University and a respected advocate before international tribunals as evidence of Nigeria’s contribution to global legal scholarship.
Kalu also said Akande’s candidacy would inspire Nigerians in the diaspora, particularly the large Nigerian community in the United Kingdom, by demonstrating that excellence nurtured in Nigeria can attain global recognition.
He commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for promoting Nigeria’s representation in international institutions and urged the government to deploy its diplomatic influence through the African Union, ECOWAS and the United Nations General Assembly to support Akande’s election.
Expressing confidence in the candidate’s prospects, Kalu said Akande’s extensive experience representing countries and advising international organisations positioned him to contribute meaningfully to the ICJ at a time when the court is handling a record number of cases involving armed conflicts, genocide and international disputes.
The Deputy Speaker further charged Akande to uphold justice and fairness if elected, stressing the need for judges who understand the challenges facing Africa and can help strengthen confidence in international law.
Earlier, Akande said he was in Nigeria to seek the country’s support for his candidature.
He praised Nigeria’s commitment to the rule of law and constitutional democracy, as well as the role of the National Assembly in strengthening democratic governance. He pledged to advance the cause of international justice and deepen respect for the rule of law globally if elected to the ICJ.
