By correspondent in Ilorin.
The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has called for strengthened collaboration among stakeholders to address persistent challenges in Nigeria’s justice sector.
Speaking in Ilorin, Kwara State, at the Network of Justice Sector Reform Teams (JSRT) Conference, on Tuesday,Fagbemi emphasized the need for collective efforts to improve justice delivery.
He commended Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for hosting the event and praised his leadership in justice reforms as well as being the Chairman, Nigeria Governors’ Forum.
“I am proud to inform participants that I hail from this state, and my governor is a man of distinction.” Fagbemi remarked, lauding AbdulRazaq’s dedication to advancing the justice system.
Fagbemi noted the outcomes of the April 2024 National Summit on Justice and ongoing reforms such as the Presidential Committee for the Review of the Laws of the Federation and the development of the National Policy on Justice.
“These initiatives target the root causes of inefficiencies in the justice system, promote inter-agency cooperation, and enhance the administration of justice,” he said, reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to judicial reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The minister acknowledged the contributions of development partners, including the British Council and Partners West Africa Nigeria, and praised the efforts of the Justice Sector Reform Teams in addressing issues like recidivism and correctional facility decongestion.
He described the reform of the justice sector as critical for sustainable socio-economic growth and the rule of law and urged participants to engage with enthusiasm.
He reminded the participants that “Justice is at the core of our aspirations for a fair and equitable society.”
Declaring the conference open,Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, expressed appreciation for Kwara State’s selection as host and described the conference as timely, adding that it aligns with the judicial reforms led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
“This event is timely as President Tinubu mobilizes the Attorney-General and his team to revitalize the system for better outcomes,” the Governor said.
He expressed confidence in the JSRT’s capacity to provide innovative solutions to the judiciary’s challenges, emphasizing the need to restore public trust in the system.
“I trust the JSRT to tackle pending issues on judicial reforms with knowledge and patriotism, strengthening public confidence in the judiciary,” AbdulRazaq added.
He invited participants to explore Ilorin’s hospitality and transformation, saying, “I encourage you to tour the city and experience the warmth and vibrancy of the new Ilorin.”
Governor AbdulRazaq reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to justice and good governance.
Our correspondent gathered that the JSRT Conference continues to serve as a platform for fostering dialogue and actionable steps toward a more effective justice system in Nigeria.
Convened by stakeholders, including representatives from the judiciary, police, legal professionals, and civil society, the conference is aimed at exploring actionable strategies for strengthening justice delivery in the country.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
