A Groundbreaking Appointment for Diversity in British Justice

Prof. Grace Chidozie Ononiwu has been appointed as the United Kingdom’s first Black African Director-General of Legal Services, a position that cements her as one of the most respected figures in British law. The announcement, made in early November 2025, was celebrated across the UK and Nigeria as a major step forward for representation in the justice system.

The Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, praised the appointment, calling it a “remarkable milestone” that reflects the “excellence, resilience, and professionalism” of Nigerians making global impact. “Prof. Ononiwu’s excellence, resilience, and professionalism embody the very best of our global citizens. We celebrate her trailblazing achievement and look forward to seeing her attain even greater heights,” Dabiri-Erewa said in a statement.

A Distinguished Career in Law and Leadership

Prof. Ononiwu’s journey through the British legal system spans over three decades. She currently serves as Director-General of Legal Delivery at the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), where she oversees one of the UK’s most vital justice institutions.

Born in East London to Igbo parents, she qualified as a solicitor in 1991 and steadily rose through the ranks of public service. Her early career at the CPS included positions as Chief Crown Prosecutor for Northamptonshire and the West Midlands. She later became Legal Director for CPS London’s North Region before serving as Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor for all London districts.

Throughout her career, Ononiwu has used her platform to promotefairness and inclusion. As Chair of the National Black Crown Prosecution Association, she worked to increase representation of people of color within the UK’s legal sector.

Honors, Recognition, and Lasting Impact

Prof. Ononiwu’s impact extends beyond her legal expertise. Her dedication to justice and equality has earned her some of Britain’s highest honors, including anOBE in 2008and aCBE in 2019for her contributions to law and order.

She was also recognized by the University of Hertfordshire, where she serves as a Visiting Professor. In 2022, the university named a building after her — a rare tribute that reflects her influence on future generations of legal professionals.

Ononiwu’s leadership and advocacy have been widely recognized. She has appeared multiple times on theUK Power List, which ranks the most influential Black Britons, and was namedWoman of the Year in 2020. She also received aBlack Solicitors Network Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring her decades-long service to justice and equality.

Championing Representation and Inclusion in Law

Throughout her career, Prof. Ononiwu has remained deeplycommitted to ensuringthat the legal system reflects the communities it serves. Her leadership within the CPS and her advocacy for inclusion have inspired a new generation of lawyers, particularly those from minority backgrounds.

Her rise to Director-General marks a defining moment for representation in British law, demonstrating that diversity is not just aspirational but achievable at the highest levels. As a Nigerian-British woman who has spent over 30 years transforming institutions from within, her story continues to inspire both within and beyond the legal profession.