History was made in Abuja, Nigeria’s Federal capital this morning as Chief Justice Mariam Aloma Mukhtar was sworn in at a well attended ceremony held at the Council Chambers of Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Justice Mukhtar who was also decorated with the national honour of Grand Commander of Niger is the 13th Nigerian CJN and the first woman to occupy the position.
President Goodluck Jonathan who presided over the ceremony described it as “historic”. He was accompanied by his wife to signify the significance of the occasion.
The President also added that Justice Mukhtar has been a trailblazer- as the first female lawyer in the former Northern Region, First female High Court Judge in the North, first female Justice of the Appeal Court and the Supreme Court.
While noting that Justice Mukhtar is a woman of destiny, the President however noted that she owes her rise to brillance, resilience and hardwork.
President Jonathan urged the new CJN to quickly settle down for the urgent task of reform of the Nigerian judiciary.
While noting that the three arms of government must work together to tackle emerging national challenges like terrorism and corruption.
The President asked new CJN to consider dedicating judges for the trial of cases of corruption and terrorism or special courts using her prerogatives.
The ceremony was attended by the leadership of the National Assembly, members of the Federal Executive Council, retired and serving justices, the Governors of Kano and Bayelsa States among others.
Source(PM NEWS)
