Federal Government applauds Elias' selection to United Nations body on global legislation

The Federal Government has extended congratulations to Taoheed Elias, a renowned Nigerian international legal expert, on his successful election to the United Nations International Law Commission, which took place during the commission's 77th session in Geneva.

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This election, as noted in a statement issued on Thursday by Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, serves as a testament to Nigeria's significant contributions to the development of international law and multilateral diplomacy.

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Elias's victory came after a competitive election, which aimed to fill the vacancy left by the resignation of Kenya's representative, Professor Phoebe Okowa, with candidates from Ghana and Botswana also vying for the seat.

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With decades of experience in international legal affairs, Elias brings a wealth of knowledge to the commission, having previously held the position of Registrar of the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals with the rank of United Nations Assistant Secretary-General.

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His impressive career also includes key positions such as Legal Adviser and Director at the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, Executive Secretary of the World Bank Administrative Tribunal, and Legal Adviser at the United Nations Compensation Commission.

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The International Law Commission, established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1947, is tasked with the progressive development and codification of international law, addressing issues such as state responsibility, international agreements, immunity, dispute settlement, piracy, and other global legal matters.

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The Federal Government has expressed confidence in Elias's ability to leverage his expertise in advancing the commission's work and promoting international cooperation and peaceful coexistence among nations.

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The government's statement concluded by congratulating Dr Elias on this notable achievement, wishing him a successful tenure in the discharge of his responsibilities on the Commission.