The Nigerian government has launched a robust campaign to garner backing for Dr. Taoheed Elias, Nigeria’s nominee for a seat on the International Court of Justice (ICJ), underscoring the election as a pivotal opportunity for Nigeria, the African continent, and the advancement of the global rule of law.
On Thursday in Abuja, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, formally introduced Dr. Taoheed Elias to the diplomatic corps as the nation’s candidate for the upcoming ICJ election scheduled for November in The Hague, Netherlands.
Founded in 1945 in the aftermath of World War II, the ICJ stands as the United Nations’ foremost judicial authority, tasked with adjudicating disputes between sovereign nations. Over the decades, it has played a critical role in maintaining international peace and justice.
Should Dr. Elias be elected, he will join the ranks of distinguished Nigerians who have served on the ICJ, including his father, Taslim Elias, as well as Charles Onyeama and Bola Ajibola.
Ambassador Tuggar praised Dr. Elias as a “highly esteemed international legal expert with an impressive history of scholarly contributions.”
He stated, “On behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria, I am proud to put forward Dr. Taoheed Elias as our candidate for the ICJ election.”
“This nomination reaffirms Nigeria’s enduring conviction that international relations must be governed by law rather than by force.”
“This moment represents Nigeria’s most vigorous diplomatic effort in over thirty years to secure a seat on the ICJ bench.”
Nigeria’s last representation on the ICJ was through the late Justice Bola Ajibola, who served until 1994.
Minister Tuggar further emphasized, “Dr. Elias embodies the qualities of a learned jurist with integrity and foresight, whose academic and professional achievements highlight Africa’s significant role in shaping international law.”
“His nomination is not only a matter of national pride but also reflects the aspirations of the entire ECOWAS region, which has lacked representation on the ICJ since Judge Abdul Koroma of Sierra Leone stepped down in 2011.”
“It is imperative to end this prolonged absence and ensure the ICJ mirrors fair geographic diversity. Africa’s voice must be revitalized in influencing the global legal framework.”
In his remarks, Dr. Elias underscored his qualifications for the ICJ position, citing decades of academic excellence, research, and teaching in international law.
He remarked, “This candidacy transcends Nigeria alone; it symbolizes Africa’s intellectual prowess, sovereignty, and dedication to upholding justice worldwide.”
Dr. Elias is a distinguished member of the Institut de Droit International and has held key roles such as legal adviser and director at the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons in The Hague.
Additionally, he serves as president of the administrative tribunal of the OPEC Fund for International Development, chairs the Islamic Development Bank’s administrative tribunal, and has previously led the OPEC appeals committee.
