Judiciary
THE First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, has said that the judiciary remains central in sustaining the rule of law in a democratic society, serving as the institution where justice and fairness are upheld, and the rights of citizens are protected.
The First Lady made this known on Tuesday in her speech during the opening ceremony of the International Association of Women Judges African Regional Conference held in Abuja.
She urged the judges to continue to build a judicial system that is transparent, compassionate and firmly anchored on rule of law.
The First Lady said.that public confidence in democratic institutions relies on courts being fair, accessible, and deeply committed to the rule of law.
”I commend the National Association of Women Judges of Nigeria for hosting this regional conference. Your sustained commitment to promoting judicial excellence, gender equity, and access to justice continues to inspire both the legal community and the wider society.
”Therefore, the presence of women on the Bench adds value to the judicial system by broadening perspectives and deepening understanding in the dispensation of justice.
”As you deliberate over the coming days, I urge you to continue building judicial systems that are transparent, compassionate, and firmly anchored in the rule of law.
”I wish you a successful conference with positive outcomes that will deepen public confidence in our courts. While you are here, do enjoy our Nigerian cuisine, music, beautiful culture and safe travels to your respective destinations.”
Also speaking, Mr Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, he described the conference with Theme: “Promoting Excellence in the Administration of Justice” as timely.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary and Solicitor-General of the Ministry of Justice, Mrs Beatrice Jedy-Agba, Fagbemi said the gathering stands as a vibrant testament to the unwavering commitment of women judges across the continent to the noble cause of justice and the strengthening of democratic institutions.
”The theme of this conference, resonates with our collective African aspiration, as encapsulated in the African Union’s Agenda 2063, to build a continent rooted in the rule of law, human rights, and good governance.
”Attaining excellence in our courts is not merely a professional standard; it is the absolute bedrock of African democracy, the ultimate guardian of human rights, and the gateway to sustainable peace, integration, and development across our continent.
”Nigeria is proud to stand at the forefront of this progressive march.
“The Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria remains deeply committed to advancing legal and judicial reforms that champion gender inclusivity,” Fagbemi said.
He said President Bola Tinubu, has taken historic, concrete steps to support the judiciary.
He further said that the Federal Government is safeguarding the independence of the courts, ease judicial services, improve corpus juris, and ensure that brilliant women jurists can dispense justice in an environment that reflects their dignity and monumental worth.
”It is equally pertinent to reflect on the inspiring way African women judges harmonise and balance the sacred call of judicial duty with the profound cultural demands of motherhood, family leadership, and professional mentorship.
”As drivers of the administration of justice across the African continent, I invite you to make bold proposals and contribute to deepening institutional reforms, ensuring that African justice systems evolve dynamically to meet the unique socio-economic realities of our people.
”By doing so, we will broaden access to justice, foster holistic human development, and advance the noble cause of nation-building across Africa,” Fagbemi said.
The host of the conference, the President of the National Association of Women Judges Nigeria (NAWJN) Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, said the conference comes at a particular moment in the evolution of justice system across Africa.
Kilete-Ekun, who is the Chief Justice of Nigeria, said: “this gathering is coming at a time when societies are confronted by complex, socio, economic, technological and governance challenges.
”The role of the judiciary has never been more consequential that it’s presence state with the administration of justice remaining the bedrock upon which peaceful society, democratic institutions and sustainable development are built.
”Whenever justice is impartial, accessible and effective, citizens develop confidence in the rules of law, where it is absent, uncertainty and instability inevitably followed.
”This engagement serves as an important platform for reflection, collaboration and renewed commitment to the ideals that defines the judicial service.
”It also a powerful catalyst to advancing judicial excellence, promoting gender equality, strengthening institutional integrity and enhancing the protection of fundamental rights of the continent”..
(NAN)
W.U
June 9, 2026
Tags: Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun Mr Lateef Fagbemi Mrs Beatrice Jedy-Agba President Bola Tinubu Sen. Oluremi Tinubu