By Anamati Inyang, November 17, 2025
President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerian judges to uphold integrity as the core of their profession, warning that no amount of reform in the judiciary can succeed if public confidence is eroded.
Speaking on Monday at the opening of the 2025 All Nigerian Judges Conference at the National Judicial Institute in Abuja, the President said the strength of the judiciary rests on its ability to interpret the constitution faithfully and preserve democratic values.
Tinubu noted that the theme of the biennial conference, “Building a Confident Judiciary,” reflects current public perceptions and the urgent need to rebuild trust. He stressed that judicial decisions must not only be grounded in law but must also be seen by the public as fair, impartial and untainted.
“Confidence is the lifeblood of justice,” he said. “A judgment may be sound in law, but if the public does not perceive it to be fair, its moral authority suffers.”
He acknowledged the concerns citizens have expressed about delays, integrity issues and access to justice, describing them as valid signals for reform. “Justice exists for the people, not for the Bench or the Bar. Their faith in the judicial process is the foundation of our national stability,” he added.
The President reminded judges that the spirit of justice resides in those who interpret the law, not in physical court structures. He emphasised that judicial welfare, training and independence are essential to strengthening the institution.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to strengthening the judiciary, Tinubu said modernisation, digitalisation, efficient processes and improved court infrastructure remain top priorities. He promised sustained support for the National Judicial Institute to ensure continuous training and development of judicial officers.
“Our courts must no longer be places where cases drag on for years,” he said. “They must become centres of efficiency where justice is dispensed promptly and confidently.”
Tinubu praised the judiciary for its courage in safeguarding constitutional order at critical times in Nigeria’s history, noting that judges have often served as the stabilising force during national uncertainties.
Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, in her remarks, thanked the President for his support and reiterated the judiciary’s commitment to integrity, fairness and accessibility. She described the conference as an essential platform for strengthening ethical standards and improving justice delivery.
The biennial conference is being attended by former and serving Chief Justices of Nigeria, Justices of the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal, Heads of Courts, and judicial officers from across the country.
