News
International IDEA, other development partners to hold National Justice Summit
International IDEA, other development partners to hold National Justice Summit
By: Michael Mike
The Federal Ministry of Justice, in partnership with the Nigerian Bar Association, International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International DEA) and other development partners, convened a National Justice Summit to foster dialogue and reimagine justice delivery in Nigeria.
The justice system in Nigeria has continued to play a crucial role in upholding the rule of law, ensuring accountability, and safeguarding citizens’ rights. Nigeria has made commendable progress to strengthen access to justice, but challenges that include trial delays, and prison congestion persist, with several, especially women, children and persons with disability not enjoying effective access to justice.
To address these issues and drive comprehensive reform was the reason for the convocation of the National Justice Summit, which is a gathering of key stakeholders in Nigeria’s justice system. The first summit held in 2017 and resulted in the adoption of Nigeria’s first National Policy on Justice (NPJ), a well thought out response to myriad problems that bedeviled Nigeria’s justice sector.
The NPJ 2017 offered a comprehensive framework for achieving equitable, fair and efficient administration of Justice. Its aim was to enhance access to justice for all, promote transparency, strengthen legal protections and ensure timely delivery of justice.
Five years later, the NPJ is now undergoing revision. Under the banner of the National Justice Summit 2024, Chief Judges, Attorneys-General, Solicitors-General from Nigeria’s 36 states will convene under the Chairmanship of the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Olukayode Ariwoola, to adopt the revised National Policy on Justice 2024. The Summit, which will hold on April 24-25, 2024, will be declared open by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and will have the President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and members of the legal fraternity among others in attendance.
RoLAC II’s contributions to the National Policy on Justice aim to improve the legal framework for criminal justice delivery in Nigeria, move state interventions in the criminal justice sector towards resolving perennial trial delays and prison congestion in a sustainable manner, and access to justice for women, children, and persons with disabilities. Once adopted, the National Policy on Justice will be the roadmap that guides government, civil society and donor interventions for justice delivery in Nigeria.
International IDEA is the implementer of the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme Phase II, which is funded by the European Union. The RoLAC II Programme aims to contribute to the consolidation of rule of law and anti-corruption reforms in Nigeria. With a focus on enhancing the performance, quality, and oversight of the criminal justice system and justice service delivery, the Programme promotes transparency, accountability, and effectiveness within the Nigerian justice sector. Building on the achievements of the previous RoLAC I Programme, RoLAC II aligns with the objectives of the EU – Federal Republic of Nigeria Multi-Annual Indicative Programme (MIP) 2022-2027. It aims to further consolidate the justice sector and anti-corruption reforms, reduce gender-based violence, and promote respect for human rights.
International IDEA, other development partners to hold National Justice Summit
News
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
By: Michael Mike
As Christians begin Lent and Muslims commence Ramadan, the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has urged Nigerians to use the rare overlap of the two sacred seasons to strengthen unity and reject divisive tendencies.
In a statement released on February 18, 2026, the institute described the simultaneous observance as more than a calendar coincidence, calling it a powerful symbol of shared values and collective responsibility in a nation grappling with insecurity and social strain.
IPCR said both seasons—marked by fasting, prayer and reflection—offer an opportunity for citizens to look beyond religious differences and recommit to peaceful coexistence. It stressed that the moral lessons of compassion, self-restraint and generosity embedded in Lent and Ramadan should translate into everyday interactions among Nigerians.
The institute warned against extremist narratives that distort religious teachings for narrow interests, noting that such interpretations undermine national stability. Instead, it encouraged faith leaders and communities to amplify messages that promote tolerance, dialogue and mutual respect.
According to the institute, true spirituality is measured not only by acts of worship but also by how individuals treat neighbours of different beliefs. It added that Nigeria’s diversity should be seen as a strength capable of fostering resilience rather than division.
“With both faiths engaged in solemn reflection at the same time, Nigerians are presented with a timely reminder that we share a common humanity and destiny,” the statement noted, urging citizens to work together toward a more peaceful and prosperous society.
The Director-General of IPCR, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, who signed the statement, extended goodwill wishes to Christians and Muslims, expressing hope that the sacred period would inspire reconciliation, understanding and renewed commitment to national unity.
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
News
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
An operative attached to a security unit in Niger State has died following an accidental discharge of a rifle at his duty post in Shiroro Local Government Area.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 10:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the operative, identified as Abubakar Iliya, 35, who was attached to a special hunters unit stationed at Galadiman-Kogo, reportedly fell from a sentry post.
During the fall, his cocked rifle disengaged and discharged, striking him in the abdomen and causing fatal injuries.
His remains were later evacuated by his unit for burial in accordance with customary rites.
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
News
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
A canoe conveying seven passengers capsized while in transit between Jata and Kami Village in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, leaving several persons missing.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 7:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the canoe, carrying six females and one male passenger, overturned during the journey.
The passengers were identified as Mustapher Yakubu; Sahura Yakubu and her child; Zarifa Yakubu; Mommy Yakubu; Lizatu Yakubu; Zaratu Yusuf; and Sumaiya Ibrahim, all from Jata/Bmagara via Kami Village.
Rescue teams, including police and local divers, were immediately mobilised to the scene. The boat driver and his conductor were rescued alive, while search efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining passengers.
Authorities said further updates would be provided as rescue operations continue.
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
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