Judges Advocate Technology, Media Responsibility, and Law Reforms to Strengthen Nigeria’s Judiciary

Judges Advocate Technology, Media Responsibility, and Law Reforms to Strengthen Nigeria’s Judiciary

Lagos, Nigeria – May 22, 2025 – At the Annual Lecture of the National Association of Judiciary Correspondents (NAJUC), retired jurists Hon. Justice Taiwo O. Taiwo and Hon. Justice Folasade Bankole-Oki (Rtd) delivered compelling calls for judicial reforms aimed at strengthening the justice system in Nigeria.

Speaking as Chairman, Justice Taiwo emphasized the need for reforms rooted in technology, international best practices, and public accountability. He praised the judiciary’s recent strides, especially the publication of judicial applicants’ names for public scrutiny, calling it a milestone for transparency. He also urged lawmakers to review outdated laws and highlighted the judiciary’s symbiotic relationship with the media, urging journalists to report court decisions accurately and responsibly.

Guest speaker, Justice Bankole-Oki, in her lecture, focused on leveraging technology to improve judicial efficiency—citing virtual hearings, Online Dispute Resolution (ODR), digital filings, and the cautious use of AI in legal processes. She warned against sensational media reporting and urged journalists to serve as accurate, ethical links between the courts and the public.

Both jurists underscored the critical role of the media in promoting transparency, educating the public, and supporting a robust, independent judiciary.

The event, held at MUSON Centre in Lagos, brought together legal professionals, media practitioners, and stakeholders to discuss the future of judicial reforms in Nigeria.