The 22nd Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, has officially retired from service after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 70. Born on August 22, 1954, Justice Ariwoola’s retirement marks the end of a long and distinguished judicial career.
Justice Ariwoola joined the Supreme Court bench on November 22, 2011, and was appointed as the substantive Chief Justice of Nigeria on June 27, 2022, following the resignation of his predecessor, Justice Tanko Muhammad. His appointment as CJN was later confirmed by the Nigerian Senate on September 21, 2022.
During his time as CJN, Justice Ariwoola led Nigeria’s judiciary, playing a crucial role in the country’s legal system. He has now stepped down after two years in the role and 13 years as a judge on the Supreme Court.
As events marking his retirement are ongoing at the Supreme Court, there are indications that Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun will be named as his successor, making her the next Chief Justice of Nigeria.
A valedictory court session was held in his honor at the Supreme Court, with many dignitaries in attendance to celebrate his contributions to the judiciary.
