Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Olukayode Ariwoola, emphasized the importance of maintaining neutrality as judges to uphold democracy and public confidence in the judiciary. He reiterated this charge during a Three-Day Retreat for Justices of the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal in Uyo, Akwa Ibom state. The retreat, organized by the Attorney General Alliance-Africa (AGA-AFRICA) in partnership with the National Judicial Institute (NJI), focused on achieving efficiency and effectiveness in Nigeria's judicial system.

Represented by Justice Helen Ogunwumiju, the CJN highlighted the significance of the rule of law, independence of the judiciary, separation of powers, fundamental rights, freedom of expression, and free and fair elections in a thriving democracy. He stressed that efficiency and effectiveness are essential foundations for the justice system to earn the trust and confidence of the people. To achieve this, he urged the adoption of innovative case management techniques, the use of modern technologies to streamline court processes, and the delivery of justice that restores faith in the rule of law.

Justice Ariwoola emphasized the potential of technology to enhance efficiency by reducing administrative tasks, aiding legal research, addressing case backlogs, and improving transparency in the administration of justice. He expressed optimism that the retreat would provide an opportunity to reflect on current practices, identify areas for improvement, and chart a course towards a more efficient and effective judiciary.

Justice Salisu Garba Abdullahi, the Administrator of NJI, emphasized the importance of timely resolution of cases, streamlining legal procedures, and eliminating unnecessary delays. He highlighted the need to invest in areas such as information and communication technology (ICT) and case management to ensure that justice is not only done but also seen to be done. Speedy justice delivery instills confidence in the legal system and upholds the rights and needs of all parties involved.

Chukukere Unamba-Opara, AGA Africa Programme Director and Country Coordinator for Kenya, expressed the organization's commitment to strengthening the legal landscape and enhancing the capabilities of the judiciary. He highlighted the history of collaboration between AGA-Africa and the Nigerian judiciary and emphasized the importance of cross-border cooperation in tackling transnational organized crime.

The retreat served as a platform for meaningful initiatives and workshops aimed at addressing transnational organized crime, including trafficking, money laundering, and wildlife crime. The AGA-Africa Programme recognizes the need for collaboration between countries to effectively combat such crimes and believes that justice actors must exploit the openness and opportunities of globalization in the pursuit of access to justice.

Naijamatta is a social networking site,

download Naijamatta from Google play store or visit www.naijamatta.com to register. You can post, comment, do voice and video call, join and open group, go live etc. Join Naijamatta family, the Green app.