From Muhammad Gazali Garba
Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the justice system, promoting the rule of law, and improving judicial infrastructure in the state.
Speaking while declaring open the 2026 Caliphate Bar Law Week of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Sokoto Branch, themed “Secured Nation, Secured Future,” Aliyu said his government has remained focused on enhancing the independence and efficiency of the judiciary since assuming office.
He disclosed that his administration approved the promotion of 14 judges and Khadis for the State High Court and Shari’ah Court of Appeal — and provided them with official vehicles to enhance their efficiency.
The Governor also announced that the state government awarded a ₦4 billion contract for the construction of a new High Court complex to improve infrastructure and expand access to justice. Another contract, he said, was awarded for the rehabilitation of the Shari’ah Court of Appeal.
The governor added that contracts have also been approved for the construction of three office complexes for the State Ministry of Justice, describing the projects as critical steps toward strengthening justice sector institutions and enhancing service delivery.
He noted that his administration has consistently supported the NBA Sokoto Branch, including sponsoring its participation in National Executive Committee (NEC) meetings. He also disclosed that the government donated a brand-new 18-seater Toyota bus to the association to facilitate its activities.
Aliyu commended the NBA Sokoto Branch for its contributions to the promotion of the rule of law and legal professionalism, noting that the relationship between the Bar, the Bench, and the government remains cordial and productive.
He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as exceptional leadership, stating that the President is steering Nigeria in the right direction with diligence and patriotism.
In his remarks, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Olatunji Fagbemi, SAN, urged the NBA to take a leading role in strengthening grassroots justice and national security.
He emphasized that sustainable security begins at the community level, noting that many threats, including terrorism and communal violence, often originate from unresolved local disputes.
Fagbemi called on legal practitioners to bridge the gap between the law and the people by promoting access to justice, alternative dispute resolution, and pro bono services, particularly for vulnerable groups. He highlighted federal efforts under President Tinubu to strengthen local government autonomy as a key step toward addressing the root causes of insecurity.
On terrorism cases, the Attorney-General revealed that the Ministry of Justice recently secured hundreds of convictions, reaffirming the government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law.
He also advocated for the establishment of state police to enhance community-level security response, while urging stronger collaboration between legal practitioners, traditional institutions, and other stakeholders.
Fagbemi commended Governor Aliyu for his sustained investment in the justice sector, describing the administration’s efforts as a clear demonstration of commitment to constitutional governance and the rule of law.
He praised the well-coordinated relationship among the three arms of government, stressing that such synergy is essential for effective governance and justice delivery.
Also speaking, the Minister of State for Works, Barrister Bello Muhammad Goronyo, lauded the Governor for his commitment to infrastructural and institutional development in Sokoto State.
He noted that the administration’s efforts have significantly improved governance and public service delivery, particularly in the justice sector.
Goronyo further commended the NBA Sokoto Branch for its role in advancing legal development and fostering professional excellence, stressing the importance of continued collaboration between the government and the legal community.
In her address, the Chairman of the NBA Sokoto Branch, Barrister Rasheeda Muhammad, described Aliyu as a dedicated and hardworking leader, commending his support for the association and the strong relationship between the government and the Bar.
Barrister Rashida noted that over 300 members registered for the event, marking a record for the state.
She further commended the Attorney-General for attending the occasion, saying it signifies commitment to the rule of law and the administration of justice.
She described the Annual Law Week as an important platform for legal practitioners to deliberate on contemporary national issues and strengthen the justice system.
A major highlight of the occasion was the launch of the _Caliphate Law Journal_, for which the Sokoto State Government donated ₦30 million.
The NBA also honoured him with an “Exceptional Leadership Award” in recognition of his contributions to governance and the promotion of the rule of law.
