From Layi Olanrewaju, Ilorin
The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has called for strengthened collaboration among stakeholders in Nigeria’s justice sector to address persistent challenges.
He made this appeal while delivering the welcome address at the Network of Justice Sector Reform Teams (JSRTs) Conference, held in Ilorin, Kwara State, on Tuesday.
The Attorney-General commended the Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, for his warm hospitality and unwavering support in hosting the conference.
“I am indeed proud to tell all the participants that I am from this state, and my governor is a man of distinction,” he said, lauding the governor’s leadership in justice sector reforms as Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum.
The conference serves as a platform for stakeholders, including representatives from the judiciary, police, legal community, and civil society, to deliberate on strategies to enhance Nigeria’s justice system.
Fagbemi noted that the event builds on the achievements of the April 2024 National Summit on Justice, which was a landmark collaboration between the judiciary, the Federal Ministry of Justice, and the Nigerian Bar Association.
Highlighting ongoing reforms, the Attorney-General revealed initiatives such as the recently inaugurated Presidential Committee for the Review of the Laws of the Federation and the development of the National Policy on Justice.
“These policies address root causes of failures in our justice system, fostering inter-agency cooperation and advancing the administration of justice,” he stated.
He emphasized the Federal Government’s commitment to judicial reforms as a cornerstone of its Renewed Hope Agenda.
“The reform of the justice sector is pivotal to achieving sustainable socio-economic growth and upholding the rule of law,” Fagbemi declared.
Acknowledging the contributions of development partners, including the British Council and Partners West Africa Nigeria, Fagbemi praised their dedication to advancing justice initiatives.
He also commended the Justice Sector Reform Teams for their efforts in addressing critical issues, reducing recidivism, and decongesting correctional facilities.
Fagbemi urged participants to approach the conference with zeal, stressing that justice reform is essential for Nigeria’s socio-economic development.
“The pursuit of justice lies at the heart of our collective aspirations for a fair and equitable society,” he remarked.
The JSRTs Conference continues to foster dialogue and chart actionable steps for a more robust justice system in Nigeria.
The Governor of Kwara State and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who officially opened the biennial Network of Justice Sector Reform Teams (JSRT) Conference in Ilorin, Kwara State, while speaking at the opening ceremony, commended the organisers for selecting Kwara State as the host for the pivotal event.
He emphasized the timeliness of the conference, particularly in the context of ongoing judicial reforms championed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
“This conference couldn’t have come at a better time as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu mobilises the Honourable Attorney-General and his team to rejig the system for better outcomes,” the Governor stated.
He expressed confidence in the ability of the JSRT to provide innovative solutions to pressing issues in the judicial system, underscoring the importance of reforms to restore and sustain public trust in the judiciary.
“I have confidence that the JSRT will address all pending issues on judicial reforms from a position of knowledge and patriotism, and in a way that strengthens public confidence in the judicial system,” he added.
Governor AbdulRazaq also encouraged participants to explore the state capital during their stay, highlighting the city’s transformation and the warmth of its residents.
“I enjoin you to move around the city to savour the beauty of the new Ilorin and the hospitality of the good people of Kwara State,” he said.
Declaring the conference open, the Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fostering justice and good governance in Kwara State and beyond.