Nigeria’s legal system is witnessing a historic moment, with women occupying the leadership of four of the country’s most important legal institutions. Their emergence reflects the increasing role of women in shaping justice, legal education and the legal profession.
1. Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN)
Hon. Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, GCON
Justice Kekere-Ekun is Nigeria’s Chief Justice and heads the Supreme Court, the country’s highest court. Sworn in on November 30, 2024, she is responsible for leading the judiciary, overseeing judicial administration and presiding over constitutional and other landmark cases that shape Nigeria’s legal system.
2. President of the Court of Appeal
Hon. Justice Monica Bolna’an Dongban-Mensem
As President of the Court of Appeal since June 2020, Justice Dongban-Mensem leads Nigeria’s second-highest court. The Court of Appeal reviews decisions from lower courts and election tribunals, making it one of the most influential institutions in the country’s justice system.
3. Director-General, Nigerian Law School
Dr. Olugbemisola Titilayo Odusote
Dr. Odusote became the first woman to head the Nigerian Law School when she assumed office on January 10, 2026. The Nigerian Law School trains law graduates before they are called to the Nigerian Bar, making it a crucial institution in producing future lawyers.
4. President-Elect, Nigerian Bar Association (NBA)
Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, SAN
Following her victory in the July 19, 2026 NBA election, Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya is set to become the 33rd President of the association. She is only the second woman to hold the office in the NBA’s history. The NBA is Nigeria’s umbrella body for legal practitioners and plays a major role in promoting the rule of law, legal reforms and professional standards.
The simultaneous emergence of women at the helm of these four institutions is a significant milestone for gender representation in Nigeria’s legal sector. Together, these leaders influence:
The administration of justice.
The interpretation and development of Nigerian law.
The training of future legal professionals.
The regulation and advancement of the legal profession.
Their leadership signals continued progress towards greater inclusion and demonstrates that women are increasingly taking centre stage in shaping Nigeria’s justice system and legal future.
EduTimes Africa, a product of Education Times Africa, is a magazine publication that aims to lend its support to close the yawning gap in Africa's educational development.