Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to African representation in international institutions after receiving Kenya’s candidate for the International Criminal Court, ICC judicial election.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dunoma Umar Ahmed, on Monday hosted Kenya’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Isaac Keen Parashina, and Judge of the Supreme Court of Kenya, Lady Justice Njoki Ndungu during a courtesy visit at the Ministry’s Headquarters in Abuja.
Justice Ndungu is seeking Nigeria’s backing ahead of the ICC judicial elections scheduled for December 2026, where Africa is expected to secure two seats.
According to the Ministry, Justice Ndungu outlined her 36-year legal and judicial career, including service as a prosecutor, legal advisor at the African Union, Member of Parliament, and 15 years on the Kenyan Supreme Court.
She also highlighted her contributions to gender justice and victims’ rights, notably her role in enacting Kenya’s Sexual Offences Act and legislation on maternity and paternity leave. Justice Ndungu further cited Kenya’s adoption of a fully virtual Supreme Court system as an example of judicial innovation to improve efficiency.
Speaking on the ICC, she stressed the importance of electing competent, courageous, and experienced African judges to strengthen the Court’s relationship with African States and boost confidence in international justice mechanisms.
Ambassador Ahmed commended Justice Ndungu’s professional record and qualifications. He noted the longstanding cordial relations between Nigeria and Kenya and the tradition of mutual support in multilateral engagements.
The Permanent Secretary reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to promoting capable African representation in international institutions and assured the delegation that Kenya’s request for support would receive due consideration through appropriate diplomatic channels.
The meeting comes as African states intensify consultations ahead of the December 2026 ICC elections.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
