Justice Nelson brings more than 26 years of distinguished judicial service to the Office of the Ombudsman. He began his judicial career as a District Court Judge in 2000 before his appointment as a Judge of the Supreme Court in December 2006. In November 2021, he was appointed Senior Supreme Court Judge, a position he held until his retirement from the Judiciary in June 2026.

Throughout his judicial career, Justice Nelson earned a reputation for integrity, fairness, and an unwavering commitment to the rule of law. His work has significantly contributed to the development of Samoa’s justice system and strengthened public confidence in the Judiciary.

Beyond Samoa, Justice Nelson has made notable contributions to the advancement of children’s rights and international human rights. In 2014, he became the first Pacific Islander appointed to the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC), where he represented the Pacific region and promoted the protection and welfare of children worldwide. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to judicial reform and children’s rights, he received an Honorary Degree from the University of Canterbury, New Zealand, in 2023. 

As Ombudsman, Justice Nelson leads the Office in promoting good governance, accountability, transparency, and respect for human rights. The Office investigates complaints concerning maladministration by government agencies, serves as Samoa’s National Human Rights Institution (NHRI), and carries out independent oversight functions under the Ombudsman Act 2013.