The Lagos State Government is set to host a Justice Reform Summit to address pressing challenges within the justice system that have impacted both the economy and society.
Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, announced the summit during a press conference on Monday at the Lagos State Ministry of Justice in Alausa, Ikeja.
Pedro explained that the Justice Reform Summit, conceived in 2023 with the approval of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, aims to create an efficient and effective justice system.
“An efficient and effective justice system is the cornerstone of a well-functioning society and a catalyst for economic growth and social stability,” he said.
The summit, themed “Enhancing the Administration of Justice, Investment Protection and Security in Lagos State,” is scheduled for May 27 and 28, 2024, at the Marriott Hotel, G.R.A Ikeja, with Governor Sanwo-Olu serving as the Chief Host.
Pedro outlined the summit’s objectives, which include addressing the inadequate enforcement of laws, appraising the causes and consequences of delays in the justice system, exploring innovative strategies to expedite legal processes, and highlighting the justice system’s role in attracting investments and rebuilding investor confidence.
The event will bring together judges, scholars, members of the Nigerian Bar Association, police, correctional officers, lawmakers, private sector representatives, and others to foster a constructive dialogue and chart a course for the future.
In her welcome address, Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice, Mrs. Titilayo Shitta-Bey Jeje, emphasized the importance of addressing the sector’s challenges through a series of discussions.
“The discussions will cover law enforcement for sustainable growth, rule of law, alternative dispute resolution, and equitable access to legal services while exploring innovative approaches and best practices from other jurisdictions,” she said.
“Our goal is to foster a collaborative environment where ideas and experiences can be freely exchanged, leading to actionable insights and concrete solutions,” Shitta-Bey Jeje added, urging all stakeholders to engage actively in this collective effort to make significant strides towards a just and equitable society.
Prominent dignitaries expected at the event include the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, GCON; Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister for Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN; Chief Judge of Lagos State, Hon. Justice Alogba; and Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, among others.
