In a warm and effusive tribute, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has felicitated the esteemed former Chief Judge of Delta State and one-time Administrator of the National Judicial Institute (NJI), Justice Rosaline Patricia Irorefe Bozimo, OFR, as she celebrates her 80th birthday on January 1, 2026.
The congratulatory message, released through the Governor's Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, on Thursday, paints a vivid portrait of Justice Bozimo as an exemplary figure in Nigeria's legal landscape—a trailblazing jurist whose career has been defined by unwavering integrity, diligence, and an unshakeable commitment to justice.
Governor Oborevwori described her as "an outstanding jurist, trailblazer, and a symbol of integrity," emphasizing that her contributions to the judiciary in Delta State and across Nigeria are not only enduring but profoundly worthy of national celebration. He highlighted how her life's work has left an indelible mark on the administration of justice, serving as a beacon for generations of legal professionals.
Born on January 1, 1946, in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State, Justice Bozimo's journey to the pinnacle of the Nigerian judiciary is a story of perseverance, academic excellence, and professional distinction. Her early education laid a solid foundation: she attended St. Maria Goretti Girls Grammar School in Benin City from 1960 to 1965, followed by Urhobo College, Effurun, where she obtained her Higher School Certificate in 1967. Pursuing higher education, she excelled at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, graduating as the best final-year student in the Faculty of Law in 1973 and earning the prestigious Nuhu Usman Prize for the highest marks in Jurisprudence.
After her call to the Bar and National Youth Service in Enugu and Onitsha, Justice Bozimo entered private practice in 1975. Alongside her husband, Alaowei Broderick Bozimo—a renowned lawyer and former Minister of Police Affairs—she co-founded the law firm Broderick Bozimo & Co. in Warri. Her brief stint as a Magistrate in the old Bendel State Judiciary from 1977 was followed by a return to private practice until 1983, when she rose through the ranks to Senior Magistrate and eventually Chief Magistrate.
Her ascent to the Bench culminated in her appointment as Chief Judge of Delta State, effective March 23, 2003. Serving until her retirement on January 1, 2011, Justice Bozimo's tenure was marked by bold reforms and a fierce defense of judicial independence. One notable action came in December 2003, when she ordered the release of 59 awaiting-trial prisoners to alleviate prison congestion, simultaneously issuing a stern warning to police against arbitrarily detaining suspects without prosecution efforts. In 2007, she demonstrated zero tolerance for corruption by dismissing a Chief Magistrate accused of accepting bribes for bail applications.
Throughout her leadership, she advocated passionately for financial autonomy for the judiciary in Delta State and improved working conditions for judicial staff. In October 2007, she made a compelling case for these reforms, underscoring the need for an independent and well-resourced judiciary. Her era also saw the establishment of sanitation mobile courts in 2008, in collaboration with then-Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, to enforce environmental laws efficiently.
Beyond Delta State, Justice Bozimo's influence extended nationally when she was appointed Administrator of the National Judicial Institute during the tenure of Chief Justice Walter Onnoghen. Assuming the role in August 2014 and serving until July 2021—including a second term—she played a pivotal role in enhancing judicial training and capacity building. Under her stewardship, the NJI deepened professionalism, ethical standards, and competence among judges and judicial officers nationwide. She organized workshops on critical issues like anti-corruption, ICT in justice delivery, and staff performance, emphasizing how technology and integrity are essential for modern judicial efficiency.
Her contributions earned her the national honor of Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR), recognizing her meritorious service to Nigeria. In 2022, Pope Francis further honored her with a papal knighthood, acknowledging her outstanding contributions to the church and society alongside other distinguished Deltans.
Governor Oborevwori, in his statement, recalled these milestones with admiration, noting that Justice Bozimo's landmark judgments, adherence to due process, and promotion of judicial ethics during her time as Chief Judge strengthened the administration of justice and upheld judicial independence. At the NJI, her leadership fostered a culture of continuous learning and ethical rigor that continues to benefit the Nigerian judiciary.
He particularly praised her as a role model for younger legal practitioners, especially women, inspiring them to pursue public service with honor and distinction. "Her life exemplifies excellence, integrity, and selfless service," the Governor declared. "As she turns 80, we celebrate her remarkable journey, her enduring legacy in the judiciary, and her invaluable contributions to the growth of our nation."
Speaking on behalf of the government and people of Delta State, Oborevwori called Justice Bozimo "a distinguished pride of Delta State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria." He prayed for God's continued blessings upon her, wishing the octogenarian robust health, peace, and many more years of fulfillment and joy.
This milestone birthday celebration underscores not just personal achievement but the broader impact of a woman who broke barriers in a male-dominated field. As one of Nigeria's pioneering female Chief Judges, Justice Bozimo has inspired countless individuals to uphold the rule of law with courage and impartiality. Her legacy serves as a reminder that true leadership in the judiciary is built on diligence, courage, and an unwavering commitment to fairness.
In an era where the integrity of institutions is often tested, figures like Justice Bozimo stand as enduring symbols of what principled service can accomplish. Her 80 years represent eight decades of dedication to justice, nation-building, and mentorship—a legacy that will undoubtedly continue to shape Nigeria's legal system for years to come.
As Delta State and the nation join in celebrating this icon, the Governor's words resonate deeply: Justice Rosaline Bozimo's story is one of inspiration, reminding us all of the profound difference one person's commitment to excellence can make.
