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By Tracy Moses
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abass Tajudeen, PhD, GCON, has reiterated the National Assembly’s commitment to strengthening the judiciary, enhancing its independence, and improving the overall efficiency of the justice system.
Addressing the opening session of the Conference of All Nigerian Judges of the Superior Courts in Abuja on Monday, the Speaker, represented by the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, PhD, CFR, highlighted ongoing legislative efforts aimed at constitutional reforms, increased funding, and oversight initiatives designed to bolster judicial performance.
Tajudeen noted that several concrete steps, including proposals to secure financial autonomy for the judiciary and modernize court operations, are currently in progress. (Signed: Levinus Nwabughiogu, Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Federal Republic of Nigeria.)
He disclosed that the House has advanced 23 constitutional amendment bills targeting critical reforms within the judiciary and the electoral system.
“This Conference convenes at a pivotal moment for our nation,” Speaker Tajudeen said. “Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Renewed Hope Agenda underscores the importance of robust institutions, and justice remains central to our national objectives. As the President recently emphasized, ‘Our justice system must ensure the welfare of Nigerians, drive economic growth, and maintain security for all.’”
He stressed that the legislature is fully committed to reinforcing judicial independence and enhancing access, fairness, and efficiency in the courts. Through constitutional amendments, budgetary allocations, and strategic oversight, the House aims to ensure a judiciary that is proactive, capable, and widely respected.
“The House has introduced 23 constitutional amendment bills this year addressing vital reforms in both the justice system and electoral processes. These initiatives reflect our shared conviction that judicial independence, prompt justice, and transparency are essential to sustaining democracy,” Tajudeen added.
The Speaker also outlined key areas where the legislative and judicial arms are working together to enhance judicial effectiveness.
“First, institutional independence and capacity are paramount. A judiciary free from financial constraints is essential for democracy. Consistent funding, improved remuneration, and advanced digital systems will safeguard judicial autonomy and boost public trust. President Tinubu has already increased certain allocations for the judiciary, and the National Assembly remains committed to maintaining this progress.
“Second, justice delivery, accessibility, and modernization are critical. Justice delayed is justice denied. The Legislature is dedicated to implementing digital case-management systems, reviewing the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, and upgrading court infrastructure. Your input during this Conference will be invaluable.
“Third, synergy among the three arms of government is vital. Legislative reforms, executive policies, and judicial decisions must complement each other for the good of Nigerians. The House will continue to enact enabling laws, implement Summit resolutions, and exercise oversight to ensure the judiciary fulfills its constitutional duties,” he said.
He assured the judiciary of the House’s unwavering support.
“The House of Representatives will continue to be a reliable partner in these reform efforts. I commend every judge here for your integrity, resilience, and dedication to serving Nigerians. Your work in safeguarding rights, promoting peace, and encouraging investor confidence is deeply appreciated.
“We look forward to practical solutions emerging from this Conference. Together, we can foster a judiciary that is independent, efficient, accessible, and widely respected,” the Speaker concluded.
In a related event, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu addressed the Abuja Chapter Law Week of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), urging female legal practitioners to advocate for the Reserved Seats Bill.
He explained that the bill seeks to guarantee greater women’s participation in political leadership, empowering them to play a significant role in national development.
“The 10th House of Representatives, under Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, PhD, has prioritized inclusion, promoting fairness, participation, and the development of institutions that reflect all Nigerians’ aspirations.
“This aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which emphasizes opportunity, fairness, and gender inclusion. The President’s appointments of women to key positions demonstrate his commitment to inclusive governance. However, sustainable equality requires legal frameworks and institutional support, which the Reserved Seats Bill provides. I am confident President Tinubu, a strong advocate of ‘he-for-she,’ will enact it into law.
“I urge FIDA members, legal professionals, and stakeholders to actively engage with the Committee. Your expertise will help turn this proposal into a reality. Nigerian female lawyers have the influence to shape the nation. The same excellence you display in courtrooms can now elevate public advocacy. Speak through articles, petitions, hearings, bar associations, classrooms, and community platforms. Unified voices will make inclusive governance in Nigeria not just a promise, but a reality. That decision will be yours,” Kalu said.