Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has urged judges to uphold the principles of fairness and integrity in the discharge of their duties to Nigerians.
Sanwo-Olu, who spoke at the 2025/2026 legal year thanksgiving service held at the Christ Church Cathedral Marina, said that an independent and courageous bench is essential for the rule of law and safeguarding citizens’ rights.
The governor, whose wife, Dr Claudiana Sanwo-Olu, represented, also reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing justice delivery, judicial independence, and ongoing reforms in Lagos State.
He asserted that the judiciary is a vital pillar of democracy, and that the third branch of government must uphold its resilience, dedication, and sacrifices to keep the country stable while strengthening public trust in the courts.
Sanwo-Olu stated, “As we enter this new legal year, I encourage you to embrace it with renewed strength, wisdom, and humility to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.”
He also highlighted some of his administration’s policies to improve access to justice, including launching new practice directions on non-custodial sentencing in September 2025, a first-of-its-kind initiative in Nigeria, and investing in judicial infrastructure, technology, and welfare.
He further mentioned, as part of his achievements, the new commercial court in Tapa, Lagos Island, aimed at transforming the administration of justice and boosting the ease of doing business; newly completed residential apartments for magistrates and legal officers in Ketu; and a new Deputy Sheriff Warehouse in Majidu to secure properties tied to ongoing court cases.
The Governor also pointed to reforms in case management, the digitalisation of court processes, and the use of alternative dispute resolution methods, describing Lagos as “a shining example for the rest of the nation.”
In his message, Lagos State Chief Judge Justice Kazeem Alogba praised the state government’s unwavering support for the judiciary.
He described Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his deputy as strong pillars in the administration of justice in Lagos.
