The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, formally received Professor Dapo Akande, the United Kingdom’s candidate for the International Court of Justice (ICJ), during a courtesy visit to the National Assembly. Prof. Akande was accompanied by officials from the British High Commission.
Receiving the delegation on behalf of the House of Representatives, Deputy Speaker Kalu lauded Professor Akande’s exceptional global achievements. He described the Professor of Public International Law as a proud Nigerian who continuously represents the nation with distinction on the global stage, calling him “one of our finest exports.”
During the dialogue, Deputy Speaker Kalu assured the delegation of Nigeria’s unalloyed support for the historic bid. He emphasized that the Nigerian Parliament stands firmly behind Professor Akande’s aspiration to serve on the world court.
We believe the Court requires voices grounded in equity and committed to upholding international law as a shield for the vulnerable, and Prof. Akande embodies these ideals.
Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu
The Deputy Speaker highlighted that this endorsement aligns with Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its bilateral relations with the United Kingdom. To ensure a successful outcome, Kalu pledged that the House of Representatives will actively deploy its legislative and diplomatic networks to support the candidacy.
He concluded by noting that Professor Akande’s potential victory extends beyond national pride, representing a significant milestone for Africa and a triumph for the principles of justice and fairness within the international system.
