President Muhammadu Buhari, Wednesday officially confirmed Justice Ariwoola Olukayode as the substantive Chief Justice of Nigeria after he took the judicial oath of office.
The ceremony held briefly at the Council Chambers in Abuja before the commencement of the weekly Federal Executive Council, FEC, which the president personally precided.
In attendance were Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, ministers, other justices of the Supreme Court, Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde and his Ondo State counterpart, Rotimi Akeredolu.
Justice Ariwoola emerged as the Justice of the Supreme Court on November 22, 2011. Former President, Goodluck Jonathan made the appointment.
In a media chat, the CJN appealed to politicians in the country to allow the judiciary to function optimally and independently.
Promising reforms at the apex court, he pleaded that the court be allowed to do its job ahead of the 2023 election.
Justice Ariwoola took over in an acting capacity following the resignation of the former CJN, Justice Tanko Muhammad, who became ill.
Recall that Justices Ariwoola and Justice Mohammed were awarded the second highest national honour–the Grand Commander of the Order of Niger (GCON) at the event.