Senate Confirms Justice Joseph Oyewole as Supreme Court Justice — Boosting Judicial Capacity & Legal Excellence in Nigeria
Abuja, Nigeria — In a landmark decision for Nigeria’s judiciary, the Senate has approved President Bola Tinubu’s nomination of Hon. Justice Joseph Olubunmi Kayode Oyewole (JCA) as a Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria — the nation’s highest court.
The confirmation took place on Tuesday, 3 February 2026, following the presentation and unanimous adoption of a report from the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters. The committee — led by Senator Adeniyi Ayodele Adegbonmire (APC, Ondo Central) — thoroughly screened Justice Oyewole’s credentials and recommended his approval.
Justice Oyewole currently served as the Presiding Justice of the Court of Appeal, Enugu Division, bringing decades of judicial experience and legal expertise to his new role on the Supreme Court bench.
A Judicial Appointment that Strengthens Nigeria’s Apex Court
President Bola Tinubu had earlier submitted Justice Oyewole’s nomination to the Senate in late January, under Section 231(2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, read the letter during plenary, after which it was referred to the Judiciary Committee for review.
During the confirmation process, Senators examined Justice Oyewole’s record, legal philosophy, and judicial temperament. Committee members noted that he responded to screening questions with clarity, depth, and judicial insight, underscoring his readiness for elevation to the Supreme Court.
With his elevation, Justice Oyewole fills the South‑West seat on the Supreme Court bench vacated by the retirement of a former Chief Justice, ensuring regional and institutional balance within the judiciary.
Why This Matters for Nigeria’s Judicial System and Governance
Reinforcing Judicial Capacity and Rule of Law
Justice Oyewole’s confirmation strengthens the Supreme Court’s capacity to adjudicate complex constitutional matters, election disputes, and critical legal challenges that shape national governance and civil rights.
Experience Meets Stability
Having served at the Court of Appeal — one of Nigeria’s key appellate courts — Oyewole brings proven legal reasoning, practical judgment, and decades of service to Nigeria’s apex judicial institution.
National Confidence in Judicial Integrity
The Senate’s unanimous voice vote to confirm the nomination reflects broad confidence among lawmakers in Oyewole’s integrity, qualifications, and dedication to justice. Senate President Akpabio prayed for wisdom and fairness as the justice begins his tenure.
