President Bola Tinubu on Monday charged Nigerian judges to protect the integrity of the judiciary, warning that no reform in the sector can succeed if public confidence continues to erode.
Speaking at the opening of the 2025 All Nigerian Judges Conference at the National Judicial Institute in Abuja, the President said the legitimacy of the Bench rests not only on the clarity of its judgments but on public perception of fairness.
“Confidence is the lifeblood of justice,” Tinubu said. “A judgement may be grounded in law, but unless the public perceives it to be fair and untainted, its moral authority is diminished.”
He acknowledged increasing public frustrations over delays, concerns about integrity, and limited access to justice, urging judicial officers to confront these perceptions through reform and renewed commitment to professionalism.
Tinubu restated his administration’s commitment to judicial independence, improved welfare, and modernisation of the courts, including digitisation and faster case management.
“Our courts must no longer be places where cases languish for years,” he said. “We will provide the material and institutional support needed to ensure efficiency and restore confidence in the rule of law.”
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The President also praised the judiciary for acting as a stabilising force during moments of national uncertainty, noting that its courageous interventions have preserved constitutional order and democratic governance.
Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, in her remarks, thanked the President for supporting judicial reforms, adding that the Bench must remain “a symbol of incorruptible honour.”
The biennial conference brings together serving and retired Chief Justices, Justices of the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal, Heads of Courts and judges nationwide.