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Taiwo Niyi, KWARA |
The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders in Nigeria’s justice sector to tackle enduring challenges.
Speaking in Ilorin, Kwara State, during the Network of Justice Sector Reform Teams (JSRT) Conference Fagbemi stressed the importance of collective efforts to enhance the country’s justice system.
He praised Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, for his hospitality and support in hosting the conference, noting the Governor’s leadership in justice reforms as Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum.
“I am indeed proud to tell all the participants that I am from this state, and my governor is a man of distinction,” Fagbemi remarked, commending AbdulRazaq’s commitment to justice sector improvements.
The conference brought together stakeholders, including representatives from the judiciary, police, legal professionals, and civil society, to deliberate on actionable strategies for improving justice delivery in Nigeria.
Fagbemi highlighted the achievements of the April 2024 National Summit on Justice and outlined ongoing reforms, such as the inauguration of the 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, emphasizing the Federal Government’s commitment to judicial reforms under its Renewed Hope Agenda.
He lauded the contributions of development partners like the British Council and Partners West Africa Nigeria for their dedication to justice initiatives. Fagbemi also acknowledged the Justice Sector Reform Teams for their work in reducing recidivism and decongesting correctional facilities.
“The reform of the justice sector is pivotal to achieving sustainable socio-economic growth and upholding the rule of law,” he declared, urging participants to approach the conference with enthusiasm. “The pursuit of justice lies at the heart of our collective aspirations for a fair and equitable society.”
In his remarks, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq expressed gratitude for Kwara State being chosen to host the pivotal event. He described the conference as timely, aligning with the ongoing judicial reforms led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
“This conference couldn’t have come at a better time as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu mobilizes the Honourable Attorney General and his team to rejig 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, noting the importance of restoring public trust in the system.
“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,” AbdulRazaq stated.
He also invited participants to explore Ilorin and experience the city’s transformation and hospitality. “I enjoin you to move round 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, Governor AbdulRazaq reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to justice and good governance.
The JSRT Conference continues to provide a platform for dialogue and actionable steps toward a more robust justice system in Nigeria.
