Lagos State Governor Babjide Sanwo-Olu, yesterday informed the legal community in the state of his commitment to the independence of the judiciary, adequate funding and the enhancement of the welfare of judges.
Sanwo-Olu, who spoke at the special thanksgiving service held for the commencement of the 2024/2025 new legal year of the Lagos state judiciary held at the Cathedral Church of Christ Marina, said his administration would continue to support the judiciary to provide access to speedy justice to members of the public.
The governor, represented by his wife, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, at the service, reaffirmed his government’s dedication to ensuring that the judiciary remains independent, well-resourced, and capable of impartial justice.
Sanwo-Olu also praised the judiciary forenhancing justice through reforms and infrastructural improvements.
He highlighted key achievements, including the digitalisation of court processes, judicial appointments, and training programmes for judges.
The governor said, “The construction of new court complexes and the renovation of existing judicial infrastructure have created a more conducive environment for the dispensation of justice,” the governor stated.
“I am particularly proud of the digitalisation of the judiciary’s filing processes, which has significantly reduced delays in filing cases,” Sanwo-Olu stated.
He stressed that these reforms are part of a broader effort to make the Lagos judiciary a model of efficiency and a beacon of hope for all citizens.
“Our judicial officers have fully embraced these innovations while remaining firmly committed to the timeless values of fairness, equity, and justice,” he remarked.
In line with the commitment to improving the efficiency of the judiciary, Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the steady increase in the number of judges within the state.
He pointed out that, in 2023, Lagos State appointed 25 new judges, with an additional 13 judges added in May 2024.
“To maintain efficiency in the swift administration of justice, the judiciary has steadily increased the number of judges. In 2023, 25 judges were appointed, followed by an additional 13 in May 2024.
“As we move into the new legal year, I extend my warmest wishes for a successful 2024 and 2025 of continued progress, reform, and justice for all.
“The vital role you play in interpreting our law, adjudicating civil and criminal matters, and providing mechanisms for alternative dispute resolution are immensely instrumental in achieving an effective justice delivery,” he said.
The Diocesan Bishop of the cathedral, Rt. Revd Ifedola Okupevi, who spoke on the sermon titled ” God of Justice, God of Peace”, charged judges, magistrates and lawyers to uphold the truth at all times.
