Okonjo-Iweala Concerned about Slow Pace of Nigeria’s Development
Lagos Boasts Highest Number of Women in Judiciary, Says Sanwo-Olu
Deji Elumoye, Alex Enumah in Abuja, and Wale Igbintade in Lagos
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has vowed to continue promoting the rule of law, adherence to the principles of separation of powers, and tolerance for dissenting views within the boundaries set by Nigerian laws.
Tinubu made these remarks during his speech at the opening ceremony of the Nigerian Bar Association’s (NBA) annual general conference in Lagos.
Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, delivered the keynote address titled “A Social Contract for Nigeria’s Future,” where she emphasized the need to accelerate national growth and development. Okonjo-Iweala expressed concern that Nigeria, despite having all the necessary resources, has not progressed as much as it should have in its over 60 years of existence.
The host governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, highlighted his administration’s commitment to the security of life and property. Sanwo-Olu also proudly stated that Lagos has the highest number of female judicial officers in the country.
Tinubu, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, recognized the NBA’s history of championing democratic ideals and promoting the rule of law. He reassured that his administration will continue to prioritize the rule of law, separation of powers, and tolerance for dissent within the legal framework.
Tinubu urged Nigerian lawyers and citizens to join hands with his administration in working towards a Nigeria that fulfills everyone’s dreams. He acknowledged that making necessary changes may yield difficult outcomes, but he expressed confidence that his administration’s policies and actions will soon bring relief to Nigerians.
The president applauded the Supreme Court for consistently upholding good governance and democracy in Nigeria, particularly referencing a recent verdict granting financial autonomy to local government councils. Tinubu outlined his administration’s efforts to reform the judiciary, including increased remuneration for judicial officers and the construction of a permanent and suitable building for the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal.
Tinubu assured the legal community that his government will prioritize the welfare of the judiciary, recognizing its crucial role in maintaining social order and economic development. He called on the NBA to provide the necessary legal guidance for rebuilding Nigeria.
Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala stressed the importance of a social contract in achieving growth and development in Nigeria. She urged the NBA to be part of the efforts to establish a new social contract that encompasses tolerance for different political parties and past administrations.
Governor Sanwo-Olu reiterated the significance of the social contract, particularly in ensuring the security of life and property. He assured that Lagos is ready to fulfill its role in the social contract and highlighted the state’s high number of women in the judiciary.
The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, emphasized his commitment to collaborating with stakeholders to improve the justice delivery system in Nigeria. Fagbemi highlighted the recent collaboration between the justice ministry, judiciary, and NBA in convening a National Justice Summit and establishing a joint agenda for justice sector reform.
Human rights advocate and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Femi Falana, called on lawyers to take firm measures to end illegal arrests and detentions by law enforcement agencies. Falana urged the NBA to implement the Administration of Police Establishment Act and Criminal Justice Act to safeguard the fundamental rights of suspects.
The President of the NBA, Yakubu Maikyau (SAN), assured attendees of the association’s commitment to justice in Nigeria, emphasizing that the bar’s existence is closely connected to its role as defenders of the people. Maikyau urged lawyers to fulfill their duties with determination and to uphold integrity at all times.