President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday called on Nigeria’s superior court judges to prioritize reforms that restore public trust in the judiciary, emphasizing integrity, technological modernization, and swift justice delivery as pillars for a stronger democracy.
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Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 2025 All Nigerian Judges’ Conference at the Andrews Otutu Obaseki Auditorium of the National Judicial Institute in Abuja, Tinubu described the gathering as an “extraordinary convocation” of judicial leaders whose wisdom, courage, and integrity underpin the nation’s democratic stability and constitutional protections.
In his address, the President highlighted the judiciary’s historical role as a “stabilizing force” during times of uncertainty, crediting judicial pronouncements with restraining tyranny and amplifying justice amid division. “For this enduring role, I extend, on behalf of the Government and the people of Nigeria, our deepest gratitude and abiding respect,” he said.
Under the conference theme, “Building a Confident Judiciary,” Tinubu stressed that public confidence is the “lifeblood of justice” and the “true currency” of the institution’s legitimacy. He candidly acknowledged public frustrations over delays, perceived integrity issues, and access barriers, urging reflection and reform. “These perceptions, whether wholly justified or not, cannot be ignored. They call upon us to reflect, to reform, and to restore. For ultimately, justice does not exist for the Bench or the Bar; it exists for the people,” he noted.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment, Tinubu positioned the judiciary within a synergistic democratic framework alongside the executive and legislature, bound by mutual respect and shared responsibility. He declared a strong, efficient, and incorruptible judiciary “indispensable to the survival of our democracy and the prosperity of our nation,” vowing tangible support beyond rhetoric.
@thenigerialawyer“Justice Does Not Exist for Bench or Bar, It Exists for the People” — Tinubu Urges Judges to Prioritize Reforms Restoring Public Trust in Judiciary
Key pledges included enhancing institutional and material resources for dignified, efficient court operations. “Our courts must no longer be places where cases languish for years; they must become beacons of efficiency, where disputes are resolved swiftly, and where litigants depart with renewed confidence in the rule of law,” Tinubu stated.
On modernization, he prioritized judicial infrastructure upgrades, including digitization, integrated case management systems, and secure facilities to boost efficiency, accountability, and trust. “Technology is no longer a luxury; it is a necessity. A digital, transparent judiciary will not only improve efficiency but will also deepen accountability and public trust. We should not leave any of our courts behind in this transformation.”
Tinubu underscored the human element, praising judges as the “living custodians of justice” and committing ongoing support for the National Judicial Institute (NJI) as a center for education and professional development. “Continuous learning and intellectual renewal must remain the hallmark of our Bench. The law evolves daily, and so too must those who interpret and apply it,” he said, emphasizing judges’ role in shaping the law in line with constitutional values.
However, he issued a stern warning on corruption, labeling it a core destroyer of the judiciary and nation. “Justice must never be for sale, and the Bench must never become a sanctuary for compromise. Corruption in any arm of government weakens the nation, but corruption in the Judiciary destroys it at its core.” His administration, he added, will back judicial efforts to eliminate misconduct, with discipline as a “collective duty” enforced transparently by the National Judicial Council and all officers. “Only a Judiciary that cleanses itself can command the moral authority to cleanse society.”
Urging delegates to adopt bold, practical solutions during deliberations, Tinubu posed critical questions: How to reduce case backlogs? Strengthen internal discipline? Make justice affordable for the poor? And build a judiciary as the “last hope of the common man”?
Addressing the judges directly as “guardians of Nigeria’s moral conscience and architects of her democratic destiny,” he assured continued executive support. “The task is weighty, but it is noble, and I assure you that this administration will continue to stand beside you, listen to you, and support you in fulfilling this sacred responsibility.”
In closing, Tinubu reflected on democracy’s ongoing narrative: “Each fair judgment strengthens the Republic; each courageous ruling preserves its soul. Let us, therefore, resolve that the chapters written in our time will be remembered for integrity, courage, and fidelity to the rule of law.” He then formally declared the conference open, wishing for fruitful outcomes and invoking blessings on the judiciary and Nigeria.
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