From Femi Mustapha, in Kaduna
The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has emphasized the need for a collaborative approach to reforming Nigeria’s justice sector.
Speaking at the Body of Attorneys-General (BOAG) conference in Kaduna State on August 6, 2025, Fagbemi highlighted the importance of working together to address the challenges facing the justice system.
Fagbemi identified protracted delays in court proceedings and the growing backlog of cases as major issues plaguing the system.
He attributed these delays to shortages of judges, courtrooms, judicial personnel, and accessible legal services, which strain the system and its users.
The Attorney-General also noted that these inefficiencies have severe societal consequences, including the rising population of awaiting-trial inmates in detention centers, exacerbating overcrowding and undermining rehabilitation efforts.
Fagbemi advocated for the adoption of forward-looking and innovative measures, such as electronic case filing systems and digitization of court processes.
He cited examples of successful implementation in Lagos State and the National Industrial Court, demonstrating the potential of technology to enhance justice delivery.
Fagbemi also emphasized the need for sustained investment in capacity building for legal and judicial personnel, empowering them to utilize digital tools and respond to emerging legal challenges.
The Attorney-General stressed the importance of partnerships with civil society, development partners, and academic institutions in driving justice reform.
He urged attendees to break down institutional silos and work towards collective impact, highlighting the complexity of justice delivery in the 21st century.
Fagbemi expressed concern that despite the 5th Alteration to the Constitution placing correctional services on the Concurrent Legislative List, few states have developed and managed their correctional facilities.
He called for a rethink of the approach to criminal justice and sentencing, advocating for increased use of non-custodial measures and institutionalization of sentencing guidelines that prioritize restorative justice and human dignity.
In conclusion, Fagbemi thanked participants for their presence and expressed confidence that the deliberations would yield actionable insights and reinvigorate the shared mission to strengthen Nigeria’s legal system.
He commended the Governor of Kaduna State, Senator (Dr.) Uba Sani, for hosting the conference and pledged to work together to advance justice, protect rights, and foster unity in the nation.
