The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has acknowledged that Nigeria’s justice sector is grappling with major obstacles as it strives to uphold fairness, efficiency, and public trust 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, the minister identified inadequate funding, limited institutional capacity, and the growing complexity of justice related issues as some of the pressing concerns.
“Justice is a timeless pursuit,” Fagbemi said, “but the strategies for achieving it must evolve with the changing realities of our world. Nigerians expect a justice system that is not only fair but also efficient, transparent, and responsive.”
He explained that discussions at the two-day retreat would place innovation and technology at the heart of reforms, describing them as the key drivers of a reimagined justice delivery system in Nigeria. “As custodians of the law, we must not just accept this wave of change we must lead it,” he added.
Fagbemi commended Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, for pioneering digital transformation in the justice sector. He noted that the state’s e-Justice initiative, launched in collaboration with LawPavilion, has introduced a case management system, an e-library, and electronic tracking of legal processes, setting a benchmark for efficiency and transparency nationwide.
The minister also praised Borno’s reforms to its penal code and support for legal officers’ welfare, saying these steps strengthen the foundation of justice. He further highlighted the internationally recognized Borno Model of Reintegration, which blends restorative justice, community engagement, and victim support within a strong legal framework.
Responding, Governor Zulum pledged continued collaboration with the Federal Government, the National Assembly, and development partners to advance reforms in Borno’s justice system, particularly at the grassroots.
He emphasized that digital tools are already transforming justice delivery in the state, citing improvements in case tracking, virtual court sessions, prison decongestion, and expanded legal aid in hard-to-reach areas. According to him, if properly scaled, technology can close the gap between rural and urban communities in accessing justice.
