Justice Reform Summit

…. assures for an effective justice delivery system – SANWO-OLU The Lagos State Government has advocated for Justice Reforms to enhance the effectiveness of its justice system. The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-olu, disclosed this on Monday, at the opening ceremony of the 2day Justice Reform Summit, themed: Enhancing the Administration of Justice, Investment Protection and Security in Lagos State; held at the Marriott Hotel, GRA Ikeja, Lagos. Sanwo-Olu noted that his administration has initiated several reforms aimed at enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of the justice system to support economic growth, investment protection and security in his State. Citing an example using the judiciary sector of Singapore, he noted that despite its small size on the world map, the country’s emphasis on the Rule of Law ensures that legal rules are consistently applied, stating that this confidence is crucial for economic stability and growth, as it reassures investors and businesses of a predictable and reliable legal environment. Declaring the event open, Sanwo-olu acknowledged that more work had to be done by the government and other stakeholders in the administration of both civil and criminal justice delivery system. “Lagos can be a safe haven for investment worldwide and we need a strong judicial system for that to exist. That will be one of the strongest points that investors will be looking for.” “Despite being referred to as the Giant of Africa, we still have a very long way to go in the administration of justice. It’s important we think out of the box, execute things quicker, faster and smarter”, He said. He further stressed that there has to be collaboration between the government, the bench and the bar. This triad plays a crucial role in ensuring that justice is delivered efficiently, fairly and transparently. Speaking earlier, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN stated that the dispensation of justice and the need to ensure an effective judicial system is a paramount role that all stakeholders in the justice system must strive to achieve if Lagos State and Nigeria as whole must achieve the desired results. He noted that during the recent press briefing organized by the Ministry of Justice, he was asked a pertinent question on why this particular summit will be different from the previous ones. The AG answered that this summit will not only focus on access to justice for all but to enhance administration of justice for improved economic activities, investment protection and security in Lagos State. He further explained that he desires that Civil cases in trial courts should not last more than 18 months from the date of commencement of an action and 6 months in cases of simple recovery of debt and 3 months in cases of recovery of arrears of rents and possession of premises in the State. Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, appealed to his learned colleagues and other stakeholders in the justice sector that as they continue to safeguard the rule of law and promote access to justice, they should also use the administration of justice for enhancement of economic growth, investment protection and security in the State and Nigeria as a nation while restoring public trust and confidence in the judiciary and the rule of law. In the same vein, the Attorney General of the Federation, Mr. Lateef . Fagbemi ,SAN,through his representative,said that the Summit presents an opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue, share experiences, analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the system, and collectively make informed decisions about reform and a new course towards a more efficient, transparent, and accessible justice system in Lagos State and beyond. “I have consistently reiterated that an effective and impartial justice system is the bedrock of any thriving economy. It provides the necessary safeguards for property rights, contract enforcement, and the resolution of commercial disputes; all of which are critical components for fostering a business-friendly environment”. “Furthermore, a fair and accessible justice system instil confidence in investors, both domestic and international, reassuring them that their interests will be protected and their grievances would be appropriately addressed”, he said. He however reassured that the Federal Ministry of Justice will intensify its engagements with the various States of the Federation through Inter-Governmental platforms like the Governors’ Forum, Body of Attorneys-General, as well as Solicitors-General meetings on issues pertaining to justice sector reforms and other cross-cutting issues of national significance. Delivering his keynote address earlier, the Former President of the Laws Society of Singapore, Mr. Gregory Viajayendran, SC noted that the Administration of Justice is linked to societal development – (Adam Smith 1772) and studies have shown that a failing justice system hinders societal and economic progress. According to Viajayendran, Lagos has been at the forefront of judicial reforms in Nigeria since 1999. He noted that there are significant inefficiencies and resource constraints that are abound in the justice system of Lagos State. “As Africa’s 5th largest economy, Lagos can leapfrog with an enhanced justice system through continuous improvement to maintain its status as a commercial hub” He further explained that what is expected is the professionalism and integrity among judiciary which is vital for restoring the trust and credibility in the public face, asserting that there is a need for strategic measures to expedite cases, reduce backlogs and eliminate public dissatisfaction. Concluding his address, Mr. Gregory Viajayendran, SC, mentioned that inefficient and outdated technology can hinder justice delivery in the state which is why Lagos State and Nigeria as a whole must leverage the use of AI technology and modernizing court system that can enhance overall efficiency. Delivering her Vote of thanks, the Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Justice, Mrs. Titilayo Shittabey -Jeje, stated that the Summit marked a significant milestone in the collective efforts to enhance the administration of justice in Lagos State and Nigeria as a whole. The Solicitor General expressed a deep sense of gratitude towards the Chief Host of the event, Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-olu