Stella Anukam, former Director of Special Programmes at the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, has been re-elected as a judge of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights. Anukam’s re-election took place at the African Union (AU) mid-year coordination meeting executive council in Accra, Ghana, securing her another six-year term.
The African Court, a continental tribunal established by African states, aims to ensure the protection of human and peoples’ rights across the continent. It is composed of 11 judges, each nominated by member states of the AU and elected by the AU assembly of heads of state and government. Anukam was first elected as a judge in 2018 and has since been instrumental in shaping human rights laws within Africa.
President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria lauded Anukam for her exceptional contributions to the field. In a statement released by his spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, Tinubu expressed his admiration for Anukam’s dedication to the advancement of human rights jurisprudence on the continent. “President Tinubu commends Justice Anukam for her contributions to the development of human rights jurisprudence on the continent and enjoins her to continue to bring her invaluable knowledge and insights to the African Court,” the statement read. Tinubu further emphasized the Nigerian administration’s commitment to supporting qualified Nigerians in international positions, highlighting the strategic importance of the country in the global community.
Anukam’s extensive legal career is marked by her academic and professional achievements. She earned her law degree from Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, in 1984, and was called to the Nigerian bar in August 1985. Besides her role as a judge, she is also a chartered secretary, chartered arbitrator, and seasoned administrator, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to her position on the African Court.
