President Bola Tinubu emphasized the pivotal role of the judiciary in fostering the confidence of both local and international investors to engage in Nigeria’s market. He articulated this perspective at the 2023 All Nigeria Judges Conference of the Superior Courts organized by the National Judicial Institute in Abuja. Represented by the Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, President Tinubu underlined the significance of the judiciary in the economic transformation of Nigeria, asserting that it is not a responsibility to be shouldered solely by the executive arm of the government.

Highlighting the vital role of the judiciary, he stated, “It is the judiciary alone that can build the confidence of investors that commercial disputes can be resolved fairly and speedily in a manner that preserves and improves their investment. Such a realization alone will significantly improve our position to be an investment destination.”

In line with his commitment to ensuring the absolute independence of the judiciary, President Tinubu directed the review of the remuneration of judicial officers, advocating for a realistic rate that reflects the present economic realities. Furthermore, he urged the consideration of qualified and experienced private legal practitioners for appointment to the appellate courts, believing that Nigeria would benefit greatly from such appointments.

In a keynote address, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, CJN, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola expressed optimism for the judiciary’s long-awaited independence to be achieved during President Tinubu’s tenure. He emphasized the need for unwavering commitment among judges to ensure that justice is not only done but also seen to be done, while maintaining a distance from ventures capable of bringing the judiciary to disrepute.

Additionally, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, affirmed the FCT’s commitment to providing an environment conducive to dispensing justice, with ongoing efforts to enhance court facilities, improve the welfare of judicial officers, and streamline administrative processes to reduce delays.

The theme for the 2023 conference, “Strengthening Judicial Commitments to the Rule of Law and Democracy,” reflects the crucial importance of the judiciary in upholding democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria. The conference aims to foster healthy and productive relationships among all three arms of government and provide continuing judicial education for all categories of judicial officers and their support staff.

As Nigeria seeks to solidify its position as an attractive investment destination, the judiciary’s role in fostering investor confidence is paramount. President Tinubu’s emphasis on the judiciary’s pivotal role serves as a reminder of the intertwined relationship between a robust judiciary and a thriving economy, underlining the significance of a fair and expeditious resolution of commercial disputes in Nigeria.