President Bola Tinubu on Monday warned that no judicial reform would succeed if integrity is compromised, declaring that the strength of Nigeria’s justice system lies in the courage and honour of those who interpret the Constitution.
Speaking at the opening of the 2025 All Nigerian Judges Conference in Abuja, the President said public confidence remains the “true currency of justice,” stressing that the Bench must urgently confront concerns about delays, corruption, and access to justice.
“Confidence is the lifeblood of justice,” Tinubu said. “A judgment may be sound in law, but if the public believes it is tainted, its moral authority collapses.”
He added that the judiciary must reflect, reform, and restore public trust, noting that justice “exists for the people, not for the Bench or the Bar.”
Tinubu urged judges to uphold the spirit of the law, insisting that the nation’s stability depends on the calibre, integrity, and independence of its judicial officers. He pledged stronger institutional and material support for faster, more efficient courts.
“Our courts must no longer be places where cases languish for years,” he said. “We cannot build a just society without a fearless and functional Judiciary.”
The President praised the judiciary’s historic role in defending constitutional order and restraining tyranny, pledging sustained investment in digital systems, modern court infrastructure, and continuous judicial training.
Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, thanked the President and reminded judges that “the temple of justice trembles where justice is denied,” calling for renewed commitment to incorruptible conduct and accessible justice.
The biennial conference drew serving and retired Justices of the Supreme Court, Court of Appeal, Heads of Courts, and judges from across the country.
