The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has reiterated the judiciary’s unwavering commitment to upholding justice, accountability, and national unity in the face of ongoing terrorism and atrocity crimes in the country.
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Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday during the inauguration of the project titled “Building the Capacity of the Nigerian Judicial Sector to Prosecute, Defend and Adjudicate Terrorism and Atrocity Cases,” the CJN emphasized the critical role of the judiciary in confronting such national threats. The project is being implemented by the National Centre for State Courts (NCSC) with support from the United States government.
Justice Kekere-Ekun, represented by Justice Muhammad Garba, said the initiative reflects a broader resolve to reinforce the rule of law and safeguard the core values of a just and humane society.
“In recent years, our nation has continued to grapple with the devastating consequences of terrorism and atrocity crimes. These acts of violence and large-scale human rights abuses do more than destroy lives — they threaten the fabric of our national unity, undermine public trust, and challenge the foundations of peace and order,” she said.
The CJN stressed that the judiciary must stand as a “sentinel of justice, a guardian of accountability, and a beacon of hope for victims and communities,” especially during these challenging times.
According to her, the project goes beyond national security concerns, serving as a testament to the judiciary’s enduring commitment to justice, fairness, and human dignity. She noted that through the effective prosecution of terrorism-related cases, the courts help dismantle the climate of impunity that fuels such crimes.
“The judiciary, by delivering fair, impartial, and timely decisions, sends a clear message that justice will be done and that no one is above the law,” she added.
Justice Kekere-Ekun also commended the United States government for its support, calling it a reaffirmation of international confidence in Nigeria’s dedication to justice and security.
In his remarks, the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, condemned the continuous wave of terrorism and related crimes across the country. He noted the lasting psychological and economic impact of such acts and stressed the importance of ensuring justice for victims.
“As a nation, we have a solemn duty to ensure that those who commit these atrocities are brought to justice and that their victims find solace in the knowledge that accountability prevails,” he said.
Justice Tsoho pointed out that the Federal High Court, which has jurisdiction over terrorism financing and related offences, plays a vital role in the ongoing fight against insecurity. However, he acknowledged that terrorism cases pose unique challenges that require specialized knowledge, enhanced skills, and institutional support.
“This capacity-building programme is not merely training; it is an investment in the future of our justice system,” he added.
Country Director of the NCSC, Mrs. Ugonna Ezekwem, affirmed the centre’s readiness to implement the project and build a more resilient and effective judiciary capable of addressing terrorism and atrocity cases.
A highlight of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, U.S. Embassy Nigeria, and the Federal High Court.
Other key stakeholders present included the Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission, Mr. Tony Ojukwu; Controller-General of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Mr. Sylvester Nwakuche; and representatives of the Legal Aid Council, among others.
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