Ola Akinwunmi
Nigeria has nominated Dr. Olufemi Elias, a distinguished international lawyer, as its candidate for a seat on the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for the 2027-2036 term. Elias, currently serving as Judge Ad Hoc at the ICJ, boasts an impressive background in international law, having worked with various global organizations, including the United Nations and the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons.
With over 35 years of experience in international law, Elias has demonstrated his expertise in academia, practice, and as an international civil servant. His father, Taslim Elias, was a prominent jurist who served as President and Judge at the ICJ, making Olufemi Elias’s nomination a notable continuation of his family’s legacy in international law.
Elias’s qualifications make him an ideal candidate for the ICJ seat. He is a full member of the Institut de Droit International and has received the honorary life membership award of the American Society of International Law for his distinguished contributions to international law.
Nigeria’s Charge d’Affaires to the UN, Amb. Samson Itegboje, presented Elias to the UN diplomatic corps, highlighting his exceptional qualifications and Nigeria’s commitment to the ICJ’s role in global dispute resolution. Itegboje noted that Nigeria has consistently respected ICJ decisions and has been actively involved in the election of judges to the Court.
Mohamed Mahmud, Minister Counselor and UN Elections Officer for Nigeria’s Permanent Mission, expressed optimism about Elias’s candidacy, citing his impressive credentials and Nigeria’s diplomatic efforts to ensure his success.
If elected, Elias will become the fourth Nigerian to serve on the ICJ, following in the footsteps of Charles Onyeama, Bola Ajibola, and Taslim Elias. The election for the ICJ seat is scheduled to take place in 2026.
