- Equitable geographical balance in the court was crucial to ensuring global justice
- Elias as a jurist of integrity and competence who meets the ICJ’s standards
- He expressed gratitude for the nomination and reaffirmed his dedication
The Federal Government has formally presented Judge Dr Taoheed Elias as Nigeria’s candidate for election to the International Court of Justice, urging international support to restore West Africa’s representation on the bench.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the presentation took place in Abuja on Thursday, with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, leading the endorsement before members of the diplomatic corps and senior officials.
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Tuggar said Nigeria’s absence from the ICJ for over three decades and the lack of West African representation since 2011 made the nomination significant. He stressed that equitable geographical balance in the court was crucial to ensuring global justice.
“This long absence underscores the importance of restoring West Africa’s voice at the world’s highest judicial body,” Tuggar said. He described Elias as a jurist of integrity and competence who meets the ICJ’s standards of moral character and professional excellence.
Tuggar explained that Elias’ candidacy represents not only Nigeria but also the international community’s collective commitment to fairness and justice. “This is about ensuring that Africa continues to play its rightful role in shaping the global rule of law,” he added.
In his remarks, Elias expressed gratitude for the nomination and reaffirmed his dedication to advancing international law.
He said his candidacy rests on three pillars, academic expertise in international law, institutional experience at the United Nations, and long-standing judicial service.
Elias, currently serving as a judge ad hoc on the ICJ, noted that his role demonstrates trust in his capabilities. He said his experience offers the court valuable perspective and practical insight.
The election for the vacant ICJ seat, previously held by former president Judge Abdulqawi Yusuf of Somalia, will take place on November 12, 2025.
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