Nigerian Margaret Obi Makes History as England’s Most Senior Black Judge

By Micheal Chukwuebuka

A former Nigerian solicitor, Margaret Obi, has made history by becoming England’s most senior black judge following her appointment as a Judge of the High Court of England and Wales.

Her appointment, which took effect on 3 October 2025, was confirmed by several reputable British publications, including Global Legal Post. Mrs Justice Obi now joins the ranks of only eight current High Court judges in England and Wales who previously practised as solicitors — a rare accomplishment within the British judiciary.

Justice Obi will serve in the King’s Bench Division, where she is expected to draw on her 27 years of legal practice and seven years of judicial experience to uphold the highest standards of justice and integrity.

Congratulating her, Oba Nsugbe (KC), Head of Pump Court Chambers in the United Kingdom, lauded her humility and deep cultural roots.

“For as long as I have known her, Mrs Justice Obi has always been naturally low-key and entirely grounded; never once forgetting her Nigerian roots,” Nsugbe said.

Before her elevation, Justice Obi held several senior judicial roles, including Deputy High Court Judge, Deputy Upper Tribunal Judge, and Chair of the Competition Appeal Tribunal. In 2023, she also made history as the Acting Judge of the Supreme Court of the British Indian Ocean Territory, further enhancing her reputation as a distinguished and versatile jurist.

Her latest appointment has drawn widespread acclaim across legal circles in both the United Kingdom and Nigeria, with many describing it as a proud moment for the Nigerian diaspora and a testament to the global impact of Nigerian legal professionals.

Justice Obi’s ascent to one of the most prestigious judicial offices in the UK stands as a powerful example of dedication, excellence, and cross-cultural achievement — a milestone that continues to inspire many across the Commonwealth.