The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has highlighted the pressing obstacles confronting Nigeria’s justice system, stressing the need for reforms that strengthen fairness, efficiency, and public confidence in the rule of law.
Speaking on Wednesday at the 2025 Justice Sector Leadership Retreat, held at the Musa Usman Secretariat’s International Conference Centre in Maiduguri, Borno State, Fagbemi said inadequate funding and limited institutional capacity remain key challenges.
“The quest for justice is an age-old pursuit, but the strategies for achieving it must keep pace with today’s realities. Nigerians now demand a justice system that is transparent, efficient, and accessible; one that does not only guarantee fairness but also delivers with speed and effectiveness,” the minister stated.
He added that discussions at the two-day retreat would focus on integrating innovation and technology into justice delivery, describing them as essential tools for transforming the sector. “As custodians of the law, we must not only accept this wave of change but lead it,” he remarked.
Fagbemi praised the administration of Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, for notable strides in judicial reforms. He pointed to the launch of the Borno e-Justice project in partnership with LawPavilion, which introduced a Case Management System, e-Library, and electronic mail tracking for legal processes, thereby promoting efficiency and transparency.
He also noted ongoing reforms of the state’s penal code and other laws, as well as initiatives to improve the welfare of legal officers and strengthen institutional frameworks. Fagbemi further commended the internationally recognised Borno Model of Reintegration, which prioritises restorative justice, human rights, and community involvement in rehabilitating victims of conflict.
In his response, Governor Zulum reaffirmed Borno’s resolve to collaborate with the Federal Government, the National Assembly, and development partners to expand justice reforms, particularly at the grassroots level.
He explained that technology is already reshaping justice delivery in the state, citing improvements in case tracking, virtual court sittings, prison decongestion, and better access to legal aid in hard-to-reach areas. “If deployed strategically, digital tools can close the justice gap between rural and urban communities,” Zulum added.
