In a robust call for judicial integrity, President Bola Tinubu urged Nigeria’s judiciary on Monday to decisively address concerns over delays, transparency, and public confidence in the legal system, stressing that justice must never be commoditized.
Speaking at the inauguration of the 2025 All Nigerian Judges Conference of the Superior Courts in Abuja, the President emphasized the urgent need for courts to operate efficiently and restore citizens’ trust. “Our courts must no longer be places where cases languish for years; they must become beacons of efficiency where disputes are resolved swiftly, and litigants depart with renewed confidence in the rule of law,” he said.
Highlighting the conference theme, “Building a Confident Judiciary,” Tinubu described public trust as the lifeblood of justice. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the judiciary, emphasizing that preserving the system’s integrity is a collective responsibility extending beyond the National Judicial Council (NJC) to every judicial officer.
“Judgments, no matter how legally sound, lose moral authority if perceived as biased or compromised. The confidence of citizens is the true measure of the judiciary’s legitimacy,” Tinubu said. He acknowledged public frustration with prolonged case resolutions, concerns about judicial integrity, and difficulties accessing justice, warning that these perceptions cannot be ignored.
The President underscored that a strong, efficient, and incorruptible judiciary is indispensable to Nigeria’s democracy and national stability. “We cannot build a just society without a fearless and functional judiciary,” he stated, promising tangible institutional support, including modern infrastructure, enhanced working conditions, and digitized court processes to ensure transparency and accountability.
Tinubu also highlighted the crucial role of judicial officers themselves. “Our judges are the living custodians of justice; their expertise, discipline, and independence define the moral strength of the Republic,” he said, stressing continuous professional development through the National Judicial Institute (NJI).
Reaffirming zero tolerance for corruption, the President warned: “Justice must never be for sale, and the Bench must never become a sanctuary for compromise. Corruption in the judiciary destroys the nation at its core.”
He concluded by calling on delegates to focus on actionable reforms, including reducing case backlogs, strengthening discipline, enhancing access for marginalized citizens, and reinforcing public confidence. “Each fair judgment strengthens the Republic; each courageous ruling preserves its soul. Let us ensure the chapters written in our time reflect integrity, courage, and fidelity to the rule of law.
