Gov. Umaru Bago of Niger has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to judicial independence and reforms to improve the administration of justice in the state.
Bago made this known during a special court session to mark the beginning of the 2026/2027 Legal Year of the Niger Judiciary in Minna on Monday.
Bago, represented by his deputy, Mr Yakubu Garba, said that judicial independence was a constitutional safeguard that must be upheld.
He assured the judiciary of the state government’s continued support in creating the conditions necessary for judicial officers to discharge their responsibilities efficiently.
The governor said the new legal year provides an opportunity to reflect on achievements, address existing challenges and renew commitment to justice, fairness and the rule of law.
The governor urged judicial officers to dispense justice without fear or favour, affection or ill will, irrespective of the influence, position or wealth of the parties involved.
He stressed that judicial independence must be accompanied by integrity, impartiality, accountability and professional discipline to sustain public confidence in the justice system.
Similarly, Alhaji Nasiru Muazu, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, called for stronger collaboration between the Ministry of Justice and the Judiciary to improve justice delivery in the state.
He congratulated the Chief Judge of Niger, Justice Halima Abdulmalik, judicial officers and members of the Bar on the commencement of the new legal year.
Muazu said collaboration between the Ministry and the Judiciary must be based on mutual respect, constitutional compliance and professional dialogue without interference in judicial decisions.
He identified the implementation of the Niger State Administration of Criminal Justice Law, 2022, as a priority, calling for faster criminal proceedings, improved case management and measures to address prolonged detention and congestion in correctional facilities.
The Attorney-General advocated the adoption of technological innovations, including electronic filing, digital records management and e-Affidavit processes, to improve court administration.
He also reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to providing timely legal advice to Ministries, Departments and Agencies to prevent unnecessary litigation.
Muazu encouraged mediation and other alternative dispute resolution mechanisms to reduce pressure on the courts.
He identified increasing caseloads, inadequate infrastructure and funding constraints as challenges facing the justice sector, proposing regular consultations and measurable performance targets to improve collaboration.
He also commended the Nigerian Bar Association branches in Minna, Suleja and Bida for their contributions to justice administration.
