As Nigeria begins implementing the Cybercrime Act 2024, legal experts and judicial stakeholders have emphasized the urgent need for comprehensive training for judges to effectively handle the complexities of cybercrime-related cases.

Legal practitioners argue that cybercrime, blockchain technology, and online dispute resolution are emerging areas requiring specialized knowledge. They stress that without adequate training, judges may struggle to interpret and apply the delicate provisions of the Act.

Speaking exclusively to LEADERSHIP, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Abdul Balogun stated that judges need capacity-building workshops on blockchain technology, cybersecurity, and intellectual property rights.

“More training for judges would provide a valuable platform to deepen their understanding of cyber laws and address challenges posed by digital crimes,” Balogun said.

A top official of the National Judicial Council (NJC), who spoke anonymously, disclosed that substantial funds are allocated annually for judges’ training at all levels. The National Judicial Institute (NJI), he noted, organizes regular capacity-building programs to equip judges with the tools needed for emerging legal challenges.

“Judges are trained annually through the NJI and collaborations with government agencies and corporate bodies. However, more specialized training in cyber-related areas is crucial,” the official said.

Constitutional lawyer Bello J. Akinwale called for workshops focused on copyright law in the digital age, enforcement of foreign arbitral awards, and intellectual property rights violations across jurisdictions.

He emphasized the importance of ongoing judicial education, stating:
“The NJI should remain proactive in promoting efficiency and improving the quality of judicial services in our courts.”

Similarly, Abuja-based lawyer Barrister Paul Aaron urged Nigeria’s judiciary to seek international partnerships for capacity-building in cyber law enforcement.

“Foreign agencies like the International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs Office (INL) and the Office of Overseas Prosecutorial Development, Assistance, and Training (OPDAT) can provide valuable expertise for Nigerian judges,” Aaron suggested.

While the National Judicial Council (NJC) insists that there is an annual budget for judicial training, legal professionals argue that more targeted training programs are required to address the dynamic nature of cybercrime.

As Nigeria navigates the complexities of the Cybercrime Act 2024, stakeholders agree that continuous training and retraining of judges are vital to ensuring effective justice delivery. Failure to prioritize judicial capacity-building could undermine the implementation of the Act and weaken the country’s fight against cybercrime.

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