Nigerian Woman Makes History as She’s Sworn In as Judge in New York

A Nigerian woman makes history as she is sworn in as a judge in New York, highlighting the growing influence of Nigerians in the global legal arena.

Abayomi Whint, a legal professional with Nigerian-American heritage, has been officially sworn in as a judge for the Kings County Civil Court in New York.

On January 23, 2025, she shared the announcement on her Instagram page through a video captioned, “Welcome to the bench, Your Honor!”

Whint was one of eight candidates elected as a judge in Brooklyn during the November 2024 elections, following her nomination by district leaders from the area. Her swearing-in ceremony occurred at Brooklyn Law School and saw attendance from family and friends who marked the occasion dressed in green and white to celebrate.

During the ceremony, she swore an oath, committing “to fulfill the responsibilities of a judge for the Kings County New York Civil Court to the best of my ability. So help me God.”

With over 20 years of experience in the public sector, Whint has established a career as a litigator, certified mediator, and arbitrator specializing in conflict resolution.

In addition to her legal practice, she has been deeply engaged in leadership development, inclusivity initiatives, team-building activities, and restorative justice. As a Restorative Circle Keeper, she has significantly contributed to promoting fair and equitable dispute resolution.

To celebrate her accomplishment, Nigerian Consul General Ambassador Abubakar Jidda and his wife organized a banquet in her honor at the Nigerian Embassy in New York.