The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has cautioned newly appointed judges against accepting unsolicited gifts, warning that such actions could damage their reputations, expose them to petitions and undermine public confidence in the judiciary.
The warning was delivered on Tuesday during the opening of an induction programme for newly appointed judges of Nigeria’s lower courts. The Chief Justice was represented at the event by the Administrator of the National Judicial Institute (NJI), Justice Babatunde Adejumo.
Addressing the new judicial officers, Justice Kekere-Ekun stressed that integrity remains one of the most important qualities expected of judges and urged them to avoid conduct that could raise questions about their independence or impartiality.
“Most importantly, do not allow unsolicited gifts. You must equally avoid throwing unnecessary birthday parties. People will seize the opportunity to bring unsolicited gifts that can lead to petitions,” she said.
Upholding Judicial Integrity
The Chief Justice reminded the judges that public trust in the judiciary depends not only on fair decisions but also on the personal conduct of judicial officers.
She advised them to avoid situations that could create perceptions of bias or compromise the integrity of the courts.
Justice Kekere-Ekun also encouraged the judges to ensure that cases brought before them are handled fairly, professionally and without unnecessary delay.
Training for New Judges
Speaking during the event, Justice Babatunde Adejumo congratulated the newly appointed judges on their appointments, describing judicial office as a position of great responsibility.
He said the induction programme was designed to prepare the judges for the demands of their new roles by strengthening their understanding of:
- Judicial ethics
- Courtroom management
- Substantive law
- Procedural law
- Professional conduct
According to him, the training aims to equip participants with the practical knowledge and ethical foundation required to administer justice effectively.
Promoting Public Confidence
The National Judicial Institute regularly organises induction courses for newly appointed judicial officers as part of its efforts to promote professionalism, accountability and efficiency within Nigeria’s judiciary.
Judicial ethics have remained a key focus of the institute’s training programmes, with emphasis placed on maintaining public confidence through transparency, independence and adherence to the rule of law.
The Chief Justice’s remarks come amid ongoing discussions about strengthening public trust in Nigeria’s judicial system and reinforcing ethical standards across all levels of the bench.
