Lagos Set To Host Justice Reform Summit

By Steve Aya / posted May 21, 2024

All is now set for the two-day ‘Justice Reform Summit’, with the theme “Enhancing the Administration of Justice for Economic Growth, Investment Protection And Security In Lagos State,” to be hosted by the Lagos State Ministry of Justice.

Speaking at a press conference to herald the summit, the Lagos State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, said that the Lagos State Government has been recognized as a pathfinder for Justice Reform in Nigeria due to its innovative achievements. However, as Nigeria’s economic nerve center, challenges still need to be addressed.

‘These Challenges demand a modern, agile, and responsive Justice system that ensures equitable access to justice safeguards fundamental rights, and protects property and investments, while meeting the evolving needs of its residents.’

The attorney general and Commissioner for Justice further said that ‘The Justice Reform Summit was conceived in 2023 upon my assumption of office with the approval of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, stems from our discussions and recognition that an efficient and effective Justice system is a cornerstone of a well-functioning society and a catalyst for economic growth and social stability. Government effort to attract foreign and local investors will be futile if our justice system remains weak, inefficient, and ineffective.’

Mr. Pedro stated that the Governor Sanwo-Olu administration understands that a justice system perceived as fair, transparent, efficient, and accountable will inspire trust and confidence among citizen’s stakeholders and investors.

The link between a robust justice system, economic growth, societal well-being, and community stability is profound. Therefore, the protracted nature of litigations and the inefficient enforcement of law and order in the state are no longer acceptable. It is to tackle these issues that the state government and the Ministry of Justice are organizing the Justice Reform Summit.

The Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, will be the chief host, with the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, as the Chairman and the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi SAN, as Special Guest of Honour.

Others expected at the event are Judges, academic Scholars, the Nigerian Bar Association the Police, Correctional officers, lawmakers, private sector representatives, and the general public. Keynote speakers are expected from Singapore and Rwanda