As Ministry Holds 2026 Mid-Year Meeting with State Counsel
The Lagos State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, on Friday 19, June 2026, hosted State Counsel across Lagos State for the 2026 Mid-Year Meeting, themed: “Enhancing Service Delivery, Professional Excellence, and Justice Sector Reform.” at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Secretariat, Alausa.
The Lagos State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, has called on State Counsel in the Ministry of Justice to recommit themselves to excellence, professionalism, innovation and accountability in the discharge of their duties, stressing that the administration of justice remains central to good governance and public service delivery.
Delivering the keynote address, the Attorney General described the Ministry of Justice as the principal legal institution of the Lagos State Government, entrusted with the responsibility of promoting justice, upholding the rule of law, and providing efficient, accessible and responsive legal services to government and its Ministries, Departments and Agencies.
According to him, the Ministry occupies a central position in the governance architecture of Lagos State through its roles in legislative development, law reform, dispute resolution, criminal and civil justice administration, as well as the protection and promotion of citizens’ rights.
The A.G emphasized the far-reaching impact of the work undertaken by State Counsel, reminding participants that every legal opinion rendered, case prosecuted or defended, law drafted and dispute resolved ultimately affects the lives of millions of Lagosians.
Reiterating the human dimension of legal practice, he stated that “every file on your table has a soul in it,” explaining that behind every brief, memorandum, case file or policy document is a person, family, business or community whose rights and future may be shaped by the decisions and actions of legal officers.
Pedro stressed the need for continuous performance review and accountability across all Directorates and Departments, adding that strategic engagements would be held with heads of directorates and senior officers before the end of the year to strengthen institutional effectiveness and enhance capacity building.
He also encouraged State Counsel to embrace technological innovations transforming legal practice globally, including e-filing systems, virtual hearings, digital records management, legal research technologies and artificial intelligence, while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, data protection and cybersecurity.
Whilst making emphasis on the culture of mentorship between senior and junior counsel, AG urged younger lawyers to actively pursue learning and professional development, noting that leadership opportunities within the Ministry would continue to be based on competence, integrity, commitment, and performance.
Pedro reaffirmed his vision of positioning the Lagos State Ministry of Justice as Nigeria’s leading public law office, while highlighting the achievements of the Ministry’s distinguished alumni in the legal profession, judiciary, and public service.
Also speaking, Hon. Justice Iyabo Muyibat Oshodi of the Lagos State High Court encouraged State Counsel to remain steadfast and committed to excellence, reminding them that she once walked the same corridors and served within the Ministry of Justice before her elevation to the Bench.
Drawing from her personal and professional journey, she urged officers not to become discouraged by challenges or periods when their efforts appear unnoticed, stressing that every act of diligence and professionalism contributes to future success.
Justice Oshodi further explained that the principle of harvest remains constant, noting that individuals inevitably reap the rewards of the seeds they sow through dedication, integrity and hard work.
Speaking earlier, the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga, described the meeting as an important platform for reflection, engagement and professional development.
He noted that the gathering provided an opportunity to review the Ministry’s performance during the first half of the year, assess ongoing initiatives, identify challenges and strengthen institutional capacity for improved service delivery.
Oyenuga said the meeting underscores the Ministry’s commitment to efficiency, accountability, innovation, and improved legal service delivery, urging participants to maximize the opportunity for professional growth and effective service.
Delivering her vote of thanks, the Permanent Secretary, Citizens Mediation Bureau, Mrs. Aderinsola Olanrewaju, expressed appreciation to the Attorney General, speakers, panelists and participants for their contributions towards the success of the meeting.
The meeting also featured interactive sessions with distinguished panelists, including Professor of Law, University of Lagos, Prof. Akeem Bello; Former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Ogun State, Mr. Gbolahan Adeniran; Partner, Africa Law Practice, Mrs. Oyinkansola Badejo-Okunsanya, SAN; and Lead Partner, Priory Terrace Solicitors, Mr. Lanre Akinsola, SAN, who shared valuable insights on leadership, professional development, integrity, career progression and public service within the justice sector.
The 2026 Mid-Year Meeting with State Counsel was convened to provide an opportunity for the Honourable Attorney General of Lagos State,Mr Lawal Pedro ,SAN,to engage directly with State Counsel on the Ministry’s performance during the first half of the year, discuss strategic priorities for the remainder of the year, and reinforce the Ministry’s commitment to service delivery, professional excellence, accountability and justice sector reform.
The programme featured distinguished former officers of the Ministry and legal experts who have attained remarkable heights in the legal profession and public service who shared valuable insights on leadership, professional development, integrity and career progression.
