Women Judges Of Rivers, Bayelsa Judiciary Celebrate International Day Of Women Judges 2026
Women Judges from the Rivers State and Bayelsa State Judiciary commemorated the 2026 International Day of Women Judges with a special event themed “Women Judges on the Bench and Beyond: Delivering Justice, Mentoring the Future, Transforming the Nation.”
The event, held on March 10, 2026, at the Justice Mary Odili Judicial Institute, highlighted the critical role women judges play in strengthening the justice system and mentoring the next generation of legal professionals.
The gathering brought together Chief Judges, lawyers, and legal practitioners from both states to celebrate and recognize the remarkable contributions of women in the judiciary.
In her welcome address, Hon. Justice T. S. Orji, Coordinator of Women Judges in Rivers State, set the tone for the occasion, emphasizing the importance of the day and the continued commitment of women judges to justice and mentorship.
Chairman of the occasion, Hon. Justice Chibuzor Simeon Amadi, DSSRS, Chief Judge of the Rivers State Judiciary, spoke on the impact of women judges on both the judiciary and society. He officially declared the event open while commending the achievements and contributions of women within the legal profession.
Delivering the keynote address, Hon. Justice Matilda Abrakasa Ayemieye, Chief Judge of the Bayelsa State Judiciary, reflected on the theme of the event, stressing the pivotal role women judges play not only in delivering justice but also in mentoring future generations and contributing to national development.
A major highlight of the event was a panel discussion moderated by Hon. Justice E. N. Thompson, where panelists examined pressing issues within the judiciary and explored practical solutions to challenges facing the justice system. The discussions underscored the influence of women judges in shaping the future of the judiciary and driving societal transformation.
Awards were presented to the panelists in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the judiciary, while a posthumous award was also presented in honour of an exceptional figure whose legacy continues to inspire the legal profession.
Adding her voice during a goodwill message, Miannaya Aja Essien, SAN, FCIArb, the only female Senior Advocate of Nigeria in Rivers State, congratulated the women judges of Rivers and Bayelsa States for celebrating excellence and dedication within the judiciary.
The event also attracted several distinguished personalities, including:
• Hon. Justice Mary Odili, JSA (Retired)
• H. E. Hon. Justice Patience Amazuofa Douye Diri
• Hon. Justice Hanatu Balogun, JCA, Justice of the Court of Appeal
• Hon. Justice A. Iyayi, DSSRS (Retired), Chief Judge Emerita
• Hon. Justice F. Kola-Olatere, Presiding Judge, NICN, Port Harcourt
The celebration concluded with a cake-cutting ceremony in honour of women in the judiciary.
The 2026 International Day of Women Judges celebration served as a powerful reminder of the strength, resilience, and transformative role of women in advancing justice and shaping the judiciary.
