Chief Justice of Nigeria Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and former governor Babatunde Fashola have called for a more efficient, technology-driven and accessible judiciary. This highlights the urgent need for a tech-driven judiciary in Nigeria.
According to The Guardian, they made the call during the 2026/2027 Lagos State Judiciary New Legal Year summit in Lagos.
The summit, themed “Justice as an Economic Infrastructure: Strengthening the Judiciary for Africa’s Fifth Largest Economy,” focused on the role of the justice system in supporting economic growth. The move towards a tech-driven judiciary was a key part of these discussions.
CJN links justice to economic development
In a goodwill message read by Justice Atinuke Ipaye, the CJN said an independent, efficient and accessible judiciary remains central to economic development.
She described justice as a form of infrastructure that is as important as roads, ports, electricity and digital networks.
Kekere-Ekun said the judiciary carries an even greater responsibility in Lagos because of the state’s position as a major centre for commerce, finance, technology and industry.
Fashola seeks better experience for court users
Fashola called for a wider review of the experience of litigants and other users of the justice system. Additionally, he emphasised the advantages of a tech-driven judiciary in improving court operations and efficiency.
He said authorities should not assess the judiciary only by legal principles but also by the quality of service delivered to court users.
The former governor added that the summit offered stakeholders an opportunity to examine the effectiveness, accessibility and responsiveness of the justice system.
He also called for a broader approach to justice delivery rather than focusing only on legal procedures.
Sanwo-Olu calls for investment in judicial technology
Sanwo-Olu, represented by Lagos Attorney-General Lawal Pedro, said a strong economy requires both physical infrastructure and an effective justice system.
He explained that a predictable, accessible and timely justice system can support business activity and investor confidence.
However, he warned that prolonged disputes can discourage investment.
Sanwo-Olu therefore called for sustained investment in judicial infrastructure, human capital and technology.
Lagos CJ backs wider participation
Lagos State Chief Judge Kazeem Alogba said the judiciary must recognise the wider economic impact of its decisions.
He noted that Lagos plays a major role in Nigeria’s economy and described the summit’s theme as timely.
Alogba also announced that future editions of the seminar would adopt both physical and virtual formats to allow more people to participate. Moreover, the transition to a tech-driven judiciary will enable greater accessibility regardless of location.
He urged participants to contribute actively to discussions aimed at strengthening the justice system.
