The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Traditional Rulers Council, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR, has congratulated Justice Sulyman Durosinlohun Kawu on his appointment as Chairman of the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria, describing it as a well-deserved recognition of his distinguished judicial career.

In a statement issued on Thursday by the Emir's spokesman, Dr Abdulazeez Arowona, the monarch also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for appointing the former Chief Judge of Kwara State to the strategic national position.

The Emir said Justice Kawu's appointment reflects his decades of meritorious service to the judiciary and the nation, noting that his tenure as Chief Judge of Kwara State was marked by landmark judicial reforms, the speedy dispensation of justice and improved welfare for judicial officers.

According to the monarch, Justice Kawu distinguished himself through integrity, transparency and an unwavering commitment to the rule of law.

"Justice Kawu's elevation to this national assignment is well deserved. His track record as Chief Judge of Kwara State speaks to his capacity, fairness and dedication to justice. We are confident that he will bring the same excellence to the Legal Aid Council," the Emir said.

Alhaji Sulu-Gambari, who served as the Presiding Justice of the Court of Appeal, Lagos Division, before ascending the throne of Ilorin in 1995, noted that the Legal Aid Council occupies a vital place in Nigeria's justice system by providing legal services to indigent and vulnerable citizens.

He expressed confidence that Justice Kawu's wealth of judicial experience and administrative competence would reposition the Council for greater efficiency, accessibility and impact.

The Emir also prayed to Almighty Allah to grant the new chairman sound health, wisdom and strength to discharge his responsibilities with fairness, dedication and impartiality.

He further urged Nigerians to support the Legal Aid Council under Justice Kawu's leadership to strengthen access to justice and ensure that no citizen, particularly the poor and vulnerable, is denied legal representation because of financial constraints.