In a rare display of athleticism and unity beyond the courtroom, Nigeria’s judicial community is gearing up for one of its most anticipated annual traditions — the 30th Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Games, set to take off on November 20, 2025, in the vibrant city of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
What began three decades ago as a modest inter-court competition has now evolved into a national sporting spectacle, bringing together judges, magistrates, registrars, and judicial staff from every tier of government — federal, state, and even specialized courts. This year, the Games promise to be the largest in history, drawing more than 10,000 athletes to compete across an exciting lineup of sporting events.
A Celebration of Unity, Wellness, and Excellence
The event, organized under the auspices of the National Sports Association for Judiciary (NASAJ), reflects the judiciary’s evolving culture — one that values not just intellect and justice, but also wellness, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
According to Sunday Noah, President of NASAJ, Uyo was chosen as this year’s host city for compelling reasons:
“Akwa Ibom was selected because of its peace, hospitality, and world-class facilities,” he explained during a press briefing in Abuja.
“Every visit, every inspection reaffirmed that Uyo has everything we need to deliver a befitting judiciary games.”
Indeed, with its state-of-the-art stadium, thriving tourism infrastructure, and welcoming community, Uyo offers the perfect stage for this milestone event — a fusion of competition and camaraderie.
A Convergence of Courts and Champions
The CJN Games serve as the judiciary’s largest sporting convergence, encompassing all major federal judicial bodies — from the Supreme Court, Court of Appeal, Federal High Court, and National Industrial Court to the FCT High Court, Customary Court of Appeal, and Sharia Court of Appeal.
Alongside these are vibrant contingents from state judiciaries across the federation — including Lagos, Kaduna, Delta, Bayelsa, Kano, and Niger States, among others.
For many participants, this annual gathering is not merely about medals, but about building bonds and morale across the country’s judicial ecosystem. It’s where robes give way to jerseys, and courtroom rivals become teammates.
Beyond the Bench: The Spirit of the Games
From football fields to tennis courts, the CJN Games showcase a wide range of sporting events — football, table tennis, badminton, handball, athletics, volleyball, chess, golf, and even swimming, reflecting Akwa Ibom’s coastal heritage.
Each discipline offers male and female categories, emphasizing inclusivity and equal opportunity across the judiciary’s ranks.
“This is more than just a tournament,” Noah emphasized. “It’s an avenue for our members to stay healthy, discover new talents, and possibly groom athletes who can represent Nigeria on international stages.”
Uyo 2025: More Than a Competition
As the countdown begins, anticipation is rising across judicial institutions nationwide.
The upcoming Games represent more than competition; they symbolize unity through sport, reminding everyone that even within the solemn world of justice, there’s room for play, connection, and community.
Uyo — with its serene landscapes, passionate sports culture, and reputation for hospitality — is poised to deliver a truly historic edition of the CJN Games.
And when the whistle blows on November 20th, it won’t just mark the start of another sporting event — it will celebrate the enduring truth that discipline, fairness, and teamwork extend far beyond the walls of Nigeria’s courts.
