Former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, explained that his decision to document his life and career as a judicial officer in a book was driven by a desire to demonstrate that anyone can achieve greatness, regardless of their background.
Justice Ariwoola made these remarks during the public unveiling of his autobiography, penned by lawyer and author Mr. Olanrewaju Akinsola. At the event, President Bola Tinubu praised Ariwoola, describing him as a model of excellence whose judicial career exemplifies the rewards of hard work, dedication, and service to Nigeria and humanity.
The book, titled: Judging with Justice The Autobiography of Hon. Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, was presented at the International Conference Centre in Abuja, coinciding with Ariwoola’s 70th birthday and his official retirement as Chief Justice.
Ariwoola expressed gratitude to God, his family, and those who supported his career, emphasizing that the book was not published to raise funds but to share his journey and accomplishments for others to learn from.
He urged the legal community, especially at the Supreme Court, to extend their full support to the new Chief Justice, Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, for the continued improvement of the judiciary and the nation. Born on August 22, 1954, Justice Ariwoola was appointed to the Supreme Court on November 22, 2011, and became the Chief Justice of Nigeria on June 27, 2022, following the resignation of Justice Tanko Muhammad. He was confirmed by the Senate as Chief Justice on September 21, 2022.
President Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the event, highlighted Ariwoola’s significant contributions to the judiciary, noting his leadership in addressing challenges within the Supreme Court and the broader Nigerian judiciary.
He pointed out the reforms during Ariwoola’s tenure, such as the increase in retirement age for judges and securing pensions for judicial officers, underscoring Ariwoola’s commitment to justice and public service.
Tinubu expressed confidence that Ariwoola’s successor would continue to uphold the standards set by him and called on the judiciary to remain steadfast in its constitutional duties, regardless of external criticisms.
He also wished Justice Ariwoola a fulfilling retirement and ongoing success in his future endeavors.
Acting Chief Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun shared her reflections on working with Justice Ariwoola, describing him as a personification of the qualities that make a nation great—discipline, foresight, and a commitment to justice.
She praised his lasting contributions to the judiciary, which she believed would be remembered for years to come.
Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike and former Head of State General Abdulsalami Abubakar also lauded Ariwoola’s impactful leadership, particularly his role in judicial reforms and maintaining stability in the justice sector.
Justice Benedict Bawaph Kanyip, President of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria, who reviewed the book, noted that it delves into Ariwoola’s background and guiding principles, emphasizing that “the only client a judge has is justice.”
The event was attended by various dignitaries, including state governors, judicial leaders, and traditional rulers, who paid tribute to the retired Chief Justice and wished him well in his retirement.
