The United Kingdom has announced its intention to nominate Professor Dapo Akande, a renowned expert in Public International Law at the University of Oxford, for election as a judge at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in 2026.

This was confirmed by Joanna Roper, the UK’s Ambassador to The Netherlands and representative to the ICJ, who highlighted Akande’s deep legal expertise. “Professor Akande is an outstanding international lawyer who will bring his expertise to the ICJ. He reflects the UK’s firm commitment to international justice, human rights, and the rule of law,” Roper said in a statement on the UK government’s website.

Akande’s nomination is supported by multiple countries, including the UK, Nigeria, Japan, Kenya, and Slovenia, showcasing his broad international recognition. This will not be his first high-profile international role; in November 2021, he was elected to the United Nations International Law Commission (ILC), where he currently serves.

In response to the nomination, Akande took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), expressing his gratitude: “It is an honour to be the United Kingdom’s intended nominee for election to the International Court of Justice in 2026.”

Akande’s legal career spans over 25 years, beginning as a research assistant to the former Nigerian Attorney-General, the late Prince Bola Ajibola (SAN). Born and raised in Ibadan, Oyo State, Akande obtained his Bachelor of Law (LLB) from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. He has served as counsel in cases before the ICJ, the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, and other significant international courts.

In addition to his academic and legal career, Akande has been a consultant to several major international organisations, including the United Nations, NATO, the African Union, and the Commonwealth Secretariat. His extensive experience in international law makes him a strong candidate for the prestigious ICJ position.

The UK government’s decision to nominate him further solidifies Akande’s reputation as a global authority in the field of public international law. His potential election to the ICJ would be a significant achievement not only for Akande but for the advancement of international law.