Lateef Fagbemi, (SAN), the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice
The federal government has launched a justice reform initiative aimed at strengthening human rights and promoting the participation of women in peacebuilding across Nigeria.
Lateef Fagbemi, Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, announced the initiative in Abuja on Tuesday at the launch of a project focused on advancing a rights-based approach to the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) and implementing the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) agenda.
The project, organised by CLEEN Foundation with support from the Norwegian government, targets the full implementation of the ACJA in 12 states and the integration of the WPS agenda in five states.
Fagbemi, represented by David Kaswe, an assistant director in the Ministry of Justice,he emphasised the need for a justice system that is gender-neutral, fair, and free from bias to maintain public trust.
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“This project is timely and important. It addresses two key goals: implementing the ACJA and recognising the role of women in peacebuilding and governance,” he said.
Fagbemi noted that while the ACJA has had impact at the federal level, extending its application to states would strengthen human rights, reduce prolonged detention, and improve justice delivery.
He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to supporting efforts that promote the rule of law and accountability.
Also speaking, Babatunde Adejumo, Administrator of the National Judicial Institute (NJI), said justice loses credibility when it is perceived as favouring one gender.
“Justice must not appear to favour one group. For systems to be fair, they must reflect the experiences of both men and women,” he said.
Michelle Hovi, representing the Norwegian Ambassador to Nigeria, Svein Baera, said the project continues Norway’s partnership with Nigerian civil society in strengthening justice, peace, and inclusion.
“This launch marks the continuation of our collaboration to support justice and inclusion in Nigeria,” she said.
Peter Maduoma, Acting Executive Director of CLEEN Foundation, said the project aims to improve access to justice, increase accountability, and promote women’s involvement in peacebuilding and governance.
He added that the foundation plans to expand the project to more states.
