The Federal Government has called on the judiciary to accelerate trials involving terrorism, kidnapping, human trafficking and other violent crimes, stressing that swift justice is critical to tackling Nigeria’s insecurity challenges.
The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), made the appeal in Abuja on Monday at the opening ceremony of the Court of Appeal 2025/2026 Legal Year.
Fagbemi said the courts play a decisive role in restoring public confidence and dismantling impunity, urging judges to prioritise cases linked to terrorism and organised crime.
“It is impossible to ignore the grave challenge of insecurity confronting our nation,” he said. “From terrorism and insurgency to kidnapping and violent crimes, these threats endanger not only lives and property but the foundation of our constitutional democracy.”
He noted that prompt hearings and resolutions in terrorism cases would strengthen the justice system and send a clear message that such crimes attract immediate legal consequences.
“The effectiveness of the judicial system is enhanced when terrorism cases are heard and concluded swiftly,” Fagbemi said. “This demonstrates that terrorism faces decisive and timely legal action, alongside military and intelligence efforts.”
According to him, the Federal Government is focusing on timely prosecution rather than prolonged detention, targeting suspects involved in mass-casualty attacks, kidnap-for-ransom syndicates, extremist recruitment and terror financing.
Fagbemi also acknowledged the pressure on the courts due to manpower constraints but assured that the administration of President Bola Tinubu is committed to strengthening judicial capacity.
“The government is committed to the immediate appointment of additional judges at the Federal High Court to boost counter-terrorism efforts and ensure cases are handled promptly and effectively,” he said.
He further appealed to Nigerians to support the fight against terrorism.
“This is a moment for collective resolve, not distraction, as we work together to secure our country,” the AGF added.
Also speaking at the event, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, pledged improved welfare and housing for judicial officers to enhance their performance.
Wike said funds had been provided for the construction of more residential buildings for judges in the FCT, noting that decent accommodation would reduce distractions and improve efficiency.
“Providing comfortable and secure housing allows judges to focus fully on the timely administration of justice,” he said.
He disclosed that the FCT Administration has handed over a Certificate of Occupancy for land allocated to the Supreme Court and commenced perimeter fencing to enhance security at the complex.
Wike listed ongoing judicial infrastructure projects in Abuja, including new court complexes, judges’ residences and staff quarters, and reaffirmed the FCTA’s commitment to justice sector reforms.
“Justice must never be compromised, because it is the bedrock of our democracy and the safeguard of public trust,” he said, expressing optimism for improved justice delivery in the new legal year.
