The Nigerian government is taking decisive steps to bolster the nation’s judicial system and address critical security challenges, with a strong focus on expediting the resolution of terrorism and violent crime cases. Key initiatives include calls for faster judicial processes, improved accommodation for judges, and increased resources for the courts.
Addressing Insecurity: A Call for Judicial Action
The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has urged the judiciary to prioritize and expedite hearings in cases involving terrorism, human trafficking, kidnapping, and other violent crimes. Fagbemi emphasized the critical role of the judiciary in supporting national efforts to combat insecurity, stating that the courts must act firmly and consistently to hold those who threaten peace and stability accountable. He stressed that swift hearings and resolutions in terrorism cases are essential to demonstrate that such acts will face immediate and decisive legal action.
Fagbemi articulated the government’s commitment to combating terrorism through a combination of kinetic and non-kinetic strategies. Rather than relying solely on military operations or indiscriminate detention, the focus is on the timely prosecution of suspects implicated in mass-casualty attacks, kidnap-for-ransom networks, extremist recruitment, and terror-financing activities.
Strengthening the Judiciary: More Judges and Better Facilities
Acknowledging the need for more personnel within the judicial system, Fagbemi stated that the current administration is committed to strengthening the judiciary. He announced the government’s intention to appoint additional judges to the Federal High Court to reinforce national counter-terrorism efforts and ensure the prompt and effective handling of terrorism-related cases.
Accommodation for Judges: A Priority
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, pledged to improve accommodation for judges, enabling them to discharge their duties without the distractions associated with poor living conditions. Wike assured judges of the FCT High Court that budgetary provisions have been made for the construction of additional residential houses to address accommodation challenges. This housing project is part of the Federal Government’s broader efforts to strengthen the judiciary by improving the welfare, security, and working conditions of judicial officers.
Wike emphasized that providing comfortable and secure accommodation allows judges to focus entirely on the timely and efficient administration of justice, free from the distractions of inadequate living conditions.
Securing the Supreme Court
Under the President’s directive, the FCT Administration has formally handed over the Certificate of Occupancy for the Supreme Court’s land and commenced full perimeter fencing of the complex to safeguard the nation’s apex court against encroachment and security threats. This intervention is considered long overdue and will serve as a confidence-building measure for the entire judiciary.
Ongoing Infrastructure Projects
The FCTA has previously initiated several judicial infrastructure projects, including:
- Construction of residences for Heads of Courts.
- A new Magistrate Court complex in the Jabi District.
- Staff quarters at the Nigerian Law School.
- Design and construction of the Court of Appeal complex in Abuja.
Residential quarters for judges of the National Industrial Court and the Federal High Court.
These projects underscore the government’s commitment to providing the necessary infrastructure to support the efficient functioning of the judiciary.
Commitment to Justice Sector Reforms
Wike reaffirmed the commitment of the FCTA to supporting comprehensive justice sector reforms, emphasizing that his administration will consolidate existing gains and expand support where necessary. He stated that justice must never be compromised under any circumstances, as it is the bedrock of democracy and the safeguard of public trust.
The FCT Administration’s priorities for the 2025/2026 Legal Year are focused on consolidating the gains made and expanding support where it is needed. Wike expressed optimism that the new legal year would usher in greater efficiency and improved justice delivery for the Court of Appeal.
