By Mercy Gadia
The House of Representatives has endorsed the candidacy of Nigerian-born international law scholar, Professor Dapo Akande, for a seat on the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for the 2027–2036 term.
The endorsement was made on Wednesday by the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, when Akande and officials of the British High Commission visited the National Assembly in Abuja.
Kalu said the House fully supports Akande’s bid, describing it as a matter of pride for Nigeria and Africa.
“As a Nigerian and parliamentarian, I say clearly that his candidacy commands the admiration and support of this House,” he said.
He described Akande’s nomination by the United Kingdom as a recognition of shared legal and academic ties between both countries.
According to him, “Africa’s presence on the world’s highest bench is a matter of justice. Justice delayed is not only a legal failure, it is a moral one.”
Kalu urged the Federal Government to intensify diplomatic efforts in support of the candidacy, noting Nigeria’s history at the ICJ and its leadership role in Africa.
He also commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for strengthening international partnerships and institutional reforms, saying such efforts would support Nigeria’s global influence.
The Deputy Speaker said Nigeria must rally its diplomatic networks, including the African Union, ECOWAS and the United Nations, to secure support for Akande.
He described Akande as one of Nigeria’s finest legal exports, noting that his academic and professional journey began at Obafemi Awolowo University and the Nigerian Bar.
“Everything you have become started in Nigeria. You carry more flags than you know,” he said.
Kalu also said Akande’s experience across international courts and institutions positioned him as a strong candidate for the ICJ bench.
Earlier, Akande said he was in Nigeria to seek the country’s support for his candidacy.
He commended Nigeria’s commitment to the rule of law and urged continued strengthening of constitutional democracy, pledging to promote global justice if elected.
The ICJ election for the 2027–2036 term will be conducted under the United Nations system, where member states vote to fill judicial vacancies on the court.