Fagbemi urges states to deepen collaboration for justice reforms

The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF)  and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef  Fagbemi, SAN, has called on state attorneys-general to intensify collaboration in addressing justice sector challenges in Nigeria.

Speaking at the Body of Attorneys-General meeting held in Abuja on Thursday Fagbemi listed some key policy milestones, including the National Policy on Justice and the recently approved National Policy on Arbitration, which seek to streamline justice delivery nationwide.

Fagbemi emphasised that these policies are designed to foster a transparent, accountable, and efficient administration of justice, serving as the bedrock for comprehensive reform across the sector.

“These efforts reflect bold initiatives aimed at achieving national aspirations for the justice sector through unity of purpose,” he said.

The AGF stressed the importance of sustained collaboration to tackle pressing issues, notably anti-corruption, gender parity, and protection of children and vulnerable groups within the justice system.

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He stressed that a unified approach was essential to effectively address these areas, especially in the administration of criminal justice.

Beyond policy adoption, Fagbemi urged all levels of government to prioritize implementation strategies that protect citizens’ liberties and promote effective justice delivery.

The justice minister cautioned against fragmented policies and advocated harmonised frameworks to ensure comprehensive protection and support for all citizens, particularly vulnerable groups.

“This meeting affords us the opportunity for deliberations, institutional interactions, and stakeholder engagement for the effective development and implementation of legal and policy frameworks,” Fagbemi stated.

The meeting brought together attorneys-general from across Nigeria, marking a renewed emphasis on collaborative policy-making and streamlined justice reforms.