Lateef Fagbemi, the Attorney General of the Federation, has said that during his tenure, the justice sector will continue to foster collaboration in the formation and implementation of the national justice policy.
Mr Fagbemi made this statement during the 2024 National Judicial Summit on the Justice Sector, which took place on Wednesday in Abuja.
“Justice Sector Summits were held in 2017 and 2022 and this summit offers us an opportunity to assess the successes recorded and challenges faced since these last summits.
“Specifically, it enables us to measure the impact of the reforms initiated by the National Policy on Justice (2017 – 2023) in the key areas of administration of justice: law enforcement, judicial proceedings, correctional services, restorative and traditional justice, legal education and practice, etc.,” said the justice minister.
Mr Fagbemi added, “At this summit, we will validate and adopt the revised National Policy on Justice, 2024-2028, which is the product of extensive research and consultations undertaken by critical stakeholders in the justice sector.
“Although, the draft policy itself is an ambitious document which aims to serve as a catalyst for the transformation of the entire justice system in Nigeria.”
According to him, this is an opportunity to comprehensively assess, review, and consider issues militating against the effective administration of justice in Nigeria.
“There will be a well-articulated broad road map of initiatives, actions and responsibilities for addressing and repositioning the justice sector to effectively and efficiently discharge its duties in enhancing national security: upholding the rule of law, promoting the protection of human rights, democratic principles and the socio-economic development of our nation,” the minister explained.
He highlighted some key interventions proposed to be pursued in the Revised National Policy on Justice, 2024. He said the policy seeks to promote and protect human rights and access to justice, which are essential features of a functional justice system.
Mr Fagbemi also said it proposes practical and sustainable interventions to implement statutory provisions that encourage the protection of human rights and access to justice.
“It also seeks to improve mechanisms for fair and speedy dispensation of justice; detention and correctional services; restorative justice; alternative dispute resolution (ADR) – developing Nigeria into an arbitration hub on the continent; commerce and economic activities; compliance with treaty obligations; synergy and cooperation across the justice sector; and independence of the judiciary; among others,” he said.
