Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, the 22nd Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), has officially retired from service after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 70.
Born on August 22, 1954, his retirement brings to a close a distinguished judicial career spanning several decades.
Justice Ariwoola was appointed to the Supreme Court on November 22, 2011, and later assumed the role of substantive CJN on June 27, 2022, following the resignation of his predecessor, Justice Tanko Muhammad.
His appointment as CJN was formally confirmed by the Nigerian Senate on September 21, 2022.
As the Supreme Court celebrates his retirement, there are strong indications that Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun may be named as his successor, potentially making her the next Chief Justice of Nigeria.