The President, National Association of Women Judges, Nigeria, Justice Jummai Sankey has advocated more appointments of women judges to the bench and to leadership positions in the judiciary to enhance gender inclusivity.
Justice Sankey stated this during the 2023 biennial national conference of the association held at the National Judicial Institute in Abuja.
The National Association of Women Judges of Nigeria, was formed nearly 30 years ago to enhance the work of women judges nationally in pursuit of equality, judicial independence and the rule of law.
Its aim is to advance human rights and equal justice by empowering women on the bench to overcome gender bias in law.
Justice Jummai Sankey described the statistical breakdown of women Judges in the country as impressive but harped on the urgent need to end violence against women and children in the society.
Justice Sankey assured participants that the conference would better equip them to overcome challenges in the line of duty as judges, wives, mothers, daughters, sisters and leaders serving humanity.
She said: “Currently, the percentage of women judges in Nigeria is 32% just as the number of judicial officials, head of courts has also been encouraging.
“Statistics disclose that in the judiciary, women are closer than other arms of government to the 35% affirmative action advocated.”
The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola noted that beyond building their capacity, the meeting would also be an avenue to cross fertilize ideas on how to eradicate violence against women and girl- child in the country.
The President, International Association of Women Judges Justice Binta Nyako tasked women judges to rally support and directions to attain success.
The theme of this year’s conference is; the woman judge in the 21st century.
Metro Lawyer
