The Borno State Ministry of Justice has presented its Digital Transformation Plan, marking a significant milestone in the modernisation of the judicial system in the state.
Speaking yesterday during the unveiling ceremony, the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Kashim Zanna, stated that Borno’s legal system is a pioneer in judicial digitalisation across Nigeria.
According to him, the initiative, which began five years ago, was designed to streamline judicial processes, expedite case hearings and enhance overall legal efficiency.
He noted that several courts in the state have already adopted digital sitting sessions which has greatly reduced the backlog of pending cases.
The commissioner for Justice and Attorney General of the state, Barr Hauwa Abubakar Isah, commended the Chief Judge for conceiving and championing the digitalisation initiative.
She emphasised that the transformation has significantly improved the execution of court sessions and other legal procedures.
Barr Hauwa also stressed the need for an urgent review and update of the Penal Code to ensure that penalties align with the realities of the current legal and social environment.
She reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to aligning its reforms with the 25-year transformation agenda of Borno State.
In his address, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum expressed strong support for the digitalisation efforts, describing the initiative as a critical boost to the state’s development.
He noted that the transformation would facilitate the timely administration of justice, ensuring swift delivery of judgments and enforcement of legal orders.
Governor Zulum also called for the engagement of legal consultants and ICT experts to train staff and contribute to the review of the Penal Code, emphasising that modernising the code is essential for aligning legal penalties with contemporary standards and upholding the rule of law in today’s context.
The Digital Transformation Plan is expected to further enhance transparency, efficiency and access to justice across Borno State.
