The President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Mazi Afam Osigwe SAN, delivered a speech at the opening of the Federal High Court’s 2024/2025 Legal Year that resonates as a clarion call for transformative judicial reforms. For me, the speech underscores the judiciary’s pivotal role in maintaining societal order, upholding rights, and fostering public trust. His observations and proposals should not only spark conversations but also lead to decisive actions.

One of the most compelling aspects of his speech is the emphasis on bridging the gap between public perception and judicial reality. The judiciary is often hailed as the last hope of the common man, yet persistent issues such as delays, inefficiencies, and allegations of corruption undermine this sacred role. The Learned Silk’s critique of these shortcomings is not merely a lament but a bold challenge to all stakeholders—judges, lawyers, and policymakers—to recommit to the ideals of justice, fairness, and transparency.

Equally significant is his focus on modernization. In an era where technology drives efficiency, the NBA President’s advocacy for digitalizing court processes, enhancing case management, and introducing e-filing platforms is timely. Such reforms are critical not only to reducing delays but also to restoring confidence in a judiciary often criticized for its sluggishness. This push for modernization aligns with global best practices and reaffirms the judiciary’s readiness to adapt to contemporary demands.

The President’s speech also addresses the heart of judicial independence. He highlights the need for judges to remain insulated from undue influences and urges swift accountability for judicial officers who deviate from ethical standards. His call for a transparent and principled judiciary reaffirms the profession’s collective responsibility to uphold the rule of law and preserve public trust.

The speech further extends its scope to practical issues affecting justice delivery, including the inadequacies of court infrastructure and the challenges of the Remita payment system. By identifying these operational bottlenecks and proposing solutions, the NBA President demonstrates a pragmatic approach to achieving systemic improvement. His appeal for better remuneration for judicial officers and staff is also a poignant reminder that justice cannot thrive without motivated and well-compensated personnel.

Perhaps the most striking aspect of his address is the moral clarity with which he condemns forum shopping and the filing of cases in courts without jurisdiction. These practices, as he rightly notes, erode the integrity of the judiciary and frustrate litigants. His call for decisive action against these unethical behaviors is a much-needed stance that reinforces the profession’s ethical foundation.

Ultimately, Mazi Afam Osigwe SAN’s speech is more than a ceremonial address; it is a blueprint for change. It lays out a vision of a judiciary that embodies efficiency, integrity, and independence—one that truly fulfills its mandate as the backbone of justice. The challenge now lies in translating these words into action. Stakeholders must rise to the occasion, ensuring that the judiciary not only meets but exceeds the expectations of those it serves.

As Nigerians look to the judiciary for justice and hope, the insights and recommendations from this speech serve as a roadmap for a more effective and trustworthy legal system. If embraced, these proposals could mark the beginning of a new era for Nigeria’s judiciary—one where justice flows freely and trust in the system is deepened.

Uthman Isa Tochukwu, Esq.
Abuja based Legal Practitioner.
[email protected]