The Lagos State Ministry of Justice on Monday, 2nd of February, 2026, hosted a delegation from the Department of Justice, Canada, led by Co-Director of Canada-Nigeria Justice Cooperation Project, Genevieve Westrope; on an official visit aimed at deepening understanding of the Ministry’s mandate, institutional framework, and key initiatives within the criminal justice system.
The visit formed part of an international knowledge-sharing engagement focused on criminal offences and prosecution processes, with particular emphasis on gender-based violence, child abuse, and human trafficking.
In his address, the Lagos Honourable Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, thanked the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for his unwavering support of the justice sector and for providing the enabling environment required for institutional growth, reform, and effective prosecution of criminal offences.
He spoke extensively on the Ministry’s role in the prosecution of criminal matters, highlighting its sustained efforts in combating gender-based violence, protecting children from abuse, and addressing human trafficking through coordinated legal and institutional responses.
Pedro emphasized the importance of inter-agency collaboration, capacity building, and victim-centred approaches in achieving justice outcomes that are fair, timely, and impactful.
He also acknowledged the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs for its critical role in facilitating the visit, noting that its partnership and advocacy were central to the Department of Justice, Canada’s engagement with Lagos State.
According to him, such collaboration underscores the value of collective action in addressing crimes that disproportionately affect women, children and the vulnerable.
Welcoming the delegation earlier, the Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga, gave an overview of the Ministry’s structure, core responsibilities, and ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening justice delivery in Lagos State.
Oyenuga expressed delight at the visit, describing it as an important opportunity to exchange ideas, share experiences, and build mutual understanding between both jurisdictions.
The Permanent Secretary noted that the Ministry remains committed to continuous improvement, innovation, and collaboration in the administration of justice.
Co-Director of Canada-Nigeria Justice Cooperation Project, Genevieve Westrope; expressed appreciation for the warm reception, noting that prior to the visit, the delegation had been informed in Abuja that Lagos State is a leading authority in the justice sector and a jurisdiction that clearly understands and effectively executes its justice mandate.
She commended the Ministry’s commitment to justice sector reform, inter-agency collaboration, and the protection of vulnerable groups, and acknowledged the openness and professionalism demonstrated throughout the engagement.
The interactive session allowed for robust discussions on prosecutorial practices, legal safeguards, policy frameworks, and enforcement challenges, while also exploring opportunities for future cooperation and learning.
The event, held at Zen Garden, Isaac John, Lagos, underscored the Lagos State Ministry of Justice’s commitment to institutional learning, strategic partnerships, and the strengthening of the criminal justice system, while reaffirming its dedication to upholding the rule of law, protecting human rights, and ensuring justice for all residents of Lagos State.
