By Prosper Mene
Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun announced on Monday that the judiciary is making significant progress in restoring public confidence, driven by sweeping reforms aimed at enhancing transparency, efficiency, and accountability.
Addressing stakeholders at the Supreme Court in Abuja, Justice Kekere-Ekun emphasized that her administration’s focus on modernization and integrity is yielding results. “We are not just reforming systems; we are rebuilding trust,” she said. “From digital case management to tackling corruption head-on, the judiciary is becoming a beacon of hope for Nigerians.”The CJN’s remarks align with recent endorsements from various quarters.
In July 2025, Vice President Kashim Shettima, speaking at a Securities and Exchange Commission workshop, praised the judiciary’s efforts to expedite capital market cases, describing it as vital for economic growth. “A trusted judiciary strengthens investor confidence,” he noted.
Civil society groups have also commended the CJN’s initiatives. The Judiciary Watch Initiative, in a March 2025 statement, lauded her for advancing digital tools like e-filing and strengthening anti-corruption measures under the Administration of Criminal Justice Act. “Her leadership is steering the judiciary toward equity and efficiency,” said Chairman Alhaji Abdullahi Sulaiman.
Key achievements highlighted by Justice Kekere-Ekun include:
Digital Transformation: Over 70% of federal high courts now use e-filing, cutting case processing times by 40% in pilot regions.
Anti-Corruption Measures: A Judicial Integrity Panel has disciplined 15 judicial officers for misconduct since January 2025.
Judicial Training: Over 2,000 judges and court staff trained on modern legal challenges, including financial crimes.
Public Access: Quarterly “Justice Open Forums” launched to engage citizens and clarify court processes.
Despite the progress, challenges remain. The Nigerian Bar Association has urged deeper reforms, including mandatory asset declarations for judges. “The judiciary must continue to earn the people’s trust,” said NBA President Yakubu Maikyau last year.
Justice Kekere-Ekun called for collective commitment: “These strides are a foundation for a judiciary that serves all Nigerians.”The Supreme Court will host a national judicial conference in November 2025 to outline further reforms, including expanding alternative dispute resolution.
