Abuja, Nigeria – Hon. Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), appointed Kabir Eniola Akanbi as Acting Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court.
Following Mrs. Hajo Sarki Bello’s retirement at age 60, the role takes effect on February 13, 2025.
The Supreme Court announced this appointment on Friday through a statement by Malam Ahmed Alfa Umar, Deputy Director of Information.
It emphasized Akanbi’s expertise and transformative impact on Nigeria’s judiciary, affirming his suitability for the position.
Akanbi previously held the position of Deputy Chief Registrar, where he oversaw the Election Petition Tribunal Unit at the Court of Appeal.
Throughout an impressive 20-year career, he has actively driven legal reforms while modernizing various judicial processes.
As a result, he has earned notable recognition for significantly advancing transparency and efficiency within the legal system.
In 2001, Akanbi earned his law degree from the University of Ibadan.
Following this accomplishment, he was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2003 after completing his studies at the Nigerian Law School in Lagos.
Furthermore, he enhanced his expertise by securing a Master’s degree in Law from Temple University in Philadelphia, USA, in 2005.
Beyond legal expertise, Akanbi holds dual fellowships from Nigeria’s Taxation Institute and Africa’s Information Management Institute.
Building on this foundation, he achieved recognition for pioneering technology integration that transformed judicial workflows and service delivery.
Through his Deputy Chief Registrar role, Akanbi spearheaded operational reforms that significantly boosted court efficiency and accountability mechanisms.
These advancements specifically enhanced tribunal management for election disputes, modernized case monitoring systems, and strengthened anti-corruption safeguards across judicial processes.
In her congratulatory message, Hon. Justice Kekere-Ekun praised Akanbi’s impressive achievements.
Furthermore, she encouraged him to leverage his extensive expertise in legal practice, corporate advisory services, and public service leadership.
She emphasized his proficiency in software development and legal technology, viewing these skills as crucial tools for enhancing the efficiency, transparency, and effectiveness of the Supreme Court.
Akanbi’s appointment underscores the judiciary’s commitment to fostering innovation and progress within its ranks.
As he assumes his new role, expectations are high that his leadership will contribute significantly to strengthening Nigeria’s judicial system.