Tinubu to Judges: No Reform Can Succeed Without Integrity

President Bola Tinubu on Monday urged Nigerian judges to uphold integrity, insisting that judicial reforms will fail if the Bench is tainted by compromise.

Speaking at the opening of the 2025 All Nigerian Judges Conference at the National Judicial Institute in Abuja, Tinubu said the judiciary’s strength lies in its faithful interpretation of the constitution and the public’s confidence in its decisions.

“The judiciary’s moral authority rests on public perception,” he said. “A judgment may be legally sound, but if citizens view it as biased or compromised, its value is weakened.”

Tinubu acknowledged growing public concerns over delays, integrity issues, and limited access to justice, stressing that these must be confronted through reform and renewed commitment.

He reaffirmed that the judiciary exists to serve the people, arguing that the credibility of courts forms the backbone of national stability. Judicial welfare, independence, and continuous training, he added, are essential to a functioning justice system.

“Our courts must stop being places where cases drag for years,” the President said. “They must become centres of efficiency where justice is delivered promptly and confidently.”

Tinubu pledged sustained investment in court infrastructure, digital transformation, and modernization, noting that technology is now indispensable. He promised ongoing support for the National Judicial Institute to drive professional development.

Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, praised the President’s commitment and described the conference as an important platform for strengthening ethics and judicial collaboration.

“The temple of justice trembles where justice is denied. We must be symbols of incorruptible honour,” she said.

The biennial conference drew serving and former Chief Justices, Court of Appeal Presidents, Supreme Court and Appeal Court Justices, heads of courts, and judges from across the country.