Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed his commitment to judicial independence, reforms, and the strengthening of justice delivery in the state.

He stated this, yesterday, during the opening ceremony of the 2025/2026 Legal Year with a thanksgiving service held at Christ Church Cathedral, Marina, Lagos.

The governor, who described the judiciary as a vital pillar of democracy, stressed that an independent and courageous Bench remains essential for the rule of law and for safeguarding citizens’ rights.

Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the First Lady, Dr Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, congratulated the Chief Judge (CJ) of the state, Justice Kazeem Alogba, for steering the judiciary “safely and successfully” through the past legal year.

He also commended judges, magistrates, and lawyers for their resilience and sacrifices, which he said were pivotal in upholding justice, fairness, and integrity in the state.

The governor outlined key reforms introduced by his administration to enhance access to justice to include the September 2025 launch of Nigeria’s first-ever practice directions on non-custodial sentencing, significant investments in judicial infrastructure, technology, and welfare, and the creation of new courts and facilities.

Other reforms, according to him, include the new commercial court at Tapa, Lagos Island, designed to boost the ease of doing business; newly completed residential apartments for magistrates and legal officers in Ketu, and a Deputy Sheriff Warehouse in Majidu to safeguard property under litigation.

In his remark, the Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, lamented the growing influence of unverified social media commentary on public perception of governance and justice.

He, however, urged judges to resist discouragement from ignorant criticisms.

Justice Alogba, in his message, acknowledged the unwavering support of Sanwo-Olu’s administration and pledged that the judiciary would remain committed to impartial justice.

However, in a sermon titled “Righteousness and Justice as Pillars for National Prosperity and Integrity,” Bishop of Lagos West Diocese (Anglican Communion), Dr James Olusola Odedeji, urged leaders to embrace integrity as the foundation of stability and growth.

He, however, lamented rising unemployment, insecurity, and killings, warning that no nation can stand without justice.

Also in his lecture at the service, Prof. Saheed Timehin emphasised that justice is not just merely a legal process but also a sacred duty of immense moral and spiritual weight.