Nigeria has formally presented Dr. Olufemi Elias as its candidate for a seat on the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague for the 2027–2036 term. The ICJ, established in 1945, is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations, tasked with settling disputes between states in accordance with international law.
The announcement was made during an event at the Nigeria House in New York, where Ambassador Samson Itegboje, Charge d’Affaires of Nigeria’s Permanent Mission to the UN, outlined Elias’ qualifications and Nigeria’s contributions to the ICJ since becoming a party to its statute in 1960.
“Dr. Elias is a distinguished international lawyer with over 35 years of experience in public international law, serving in academia, international organizations, and as a Judge Ad Hoc at the ICJ,” said Itegboje. He highlighted Elias’ legacy as the son of Taslim Elias, a former President of the ICJ, whose tenure marked significant contributions to international law.
Nigeria’s Legacy at the ICJ
Elias’ candidacy continues Nigeria’s historical ties with the ICJ. Charles Onyeama (1966–1976), Bola Ajibola (1991–1994), and Taslim Elias (1976–1991) all served as judges, with Taslim Elias becoming the first African President of the ICJ.
Ambassador Itegboje emphasized Nigeria’s respect for ICJ rulings, referencing the peaceful resolution of its territorial dispute with Cameroon over Bakassi Peninsula. “Nigeria has always respected its international obligations and adhered to ICJ rulings, demonstrating its commitment to peaceful dispute resolution,” he said.
A Distinguished Career
Dr. Elias’ career spans significant roles, including President of the Administrative Tribunal of the OPEC Fund for International Development and Chairman of the Islamic Development Bank Administrative Tribunal. He is also a member of the Institut de Droit International, an elite body of international legal scholars, and Secretary-General of the African Association of International Law.
Speaking at the event, Elias expressed his gratitude and confidence in his qualifications. “Nigeria’s long-standing respect for international law and my extensive experience in public international law place me in good stead to contribute meaningfully to the ICJ,” he said.
If elected, Elias will be the fourth Nigerian to sit at the ICJ and the first since 1994. His candidacy underscores Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening its role in global dispute resolution and advancing the principles of international law.
