Reps Endorse Nigerian-Born UK Candidate Akande For ICJ Seat

The House of Representatives has endorsed the candidacy of Professor Dapo Akande, a Nigerian-born United Kingdom nominee, for election to a seat on the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for the 2027–2036 term.

The endorsement was expressed on Wednesday by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu during a courtesy visit by Akande and officials of the British High Commission to the National Assembly in Abuja.

Kalu said Akande’s nomination represents more than a personal achievement, describing it as a reflection of shared legal and diplomatic values between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

“As Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, it is my honour to receive Professor Akande and to say clearly, as a Nigerian and as a parliamentarian, that his candidacy for the International Court of Justice… is one that commands the admiration and personal support of this House,” he said.

He described Akande’s nomination as “structural recognition of a shared legal destiny,” stressing that Africa’s representation at the ICJ remains a matter of justice rather than sentiment.

Kalu also referenced diplomatic ties between both countries, noting the UK’s financial and strategic partnership with Nigeria, including its bilateral commitments and long-standing cooperation frameworks.

He said Akande’s nomination highlights the global relevance of Nigerian-trained professionals and the value of international collaboration in law and governance.

The Deputy Speaker further highlighted Akande’s academic and professional background, noting his contributions to international law and his career spanning multiple global institutions.

He said Akande’s achievements reflect the strength of Nigeria’s legal education system and its global impact.

“The 2021 Census for England and Wales counted over 270,000 Nigerian-born residents in the United Kingdom… Professor Akande, your candidacy speaks to every single one of those people,” he said.

Kalu also commended the administration of President Bola Tinubu for strengthening diplomatic engagement and supporting Nigeria’s representation in global institutions.

“Nigeria has a proud history at the ICJ, and that history must continue,” he said, urging sustained diplomatic backing for Akande’s candidacy.

He called on Nigeria’s foreign policy institutions to leverage multilateral platforms including the United Nations, African Union, ECOWAS, and bilateral partnerships to support the bid.

Earlier, Professor Akande said his visit was to seek Nigeria’s support for his candidacy, while reaffirming his commitment to advancing the rule of law globally if elected.

He commended Nigeria’s legal and democratic institutions and expressed appreciation for parliamentary efforts to strengthen constitutional governance.

Akande also pledged to promote international justice and reinforce the role of law in resolving global disputes if elected to the ICJ.