Former President Goodluck Jonathan has called on members of the legal profession to play a stronger role in nation-building, stressing that Nigeria’s future depends on the strength of its institutions, the independence of the judiciary, and the integrity of national values.
According to The Punch, Jonathan made the remarks on Saturday at the opening ceremony of the Nigerian Bar Association, Yenagoa Branch 2026 Law Week held in Bayelsa State.
The event, themed “Securing the Future: Sustainable National Asset Protection in Africa; Opportunities, Risks and Regulatory Pathways,” gathered legal practitioners, judicial officers, and other stakeholders to deliberate on governance, justice, and development issues.
During a plenary session, the former president urged lawyers and judicial officers to remain committed to justice, fairness, and the rule of law in the performance of their duties.
He described members of the Bench and Bar as custodians of the nation’s legal and regulatory systems.
According to Jonathan, the country’s progress and stability depend largely on the ability of its institutions to function independently and effectively without undue influence.
He maintained that Nigeria can only secure a prosperous future when the rule of law prevails over the power of individuals.
“As ministers in the temple of justice, I reminded them that the future of our nation can only be secured when justice is stronger than power; when institutions are stronger than individuals; when our post-colonial education system is thoughtfully reformed to meet the demands of a changing world; and when the law affords equal protection to both the powerful and the vulnerable,” Jonathan stated.
The former president also called for sweeping reforms in the education sector, arguing that the system must be modernised to meet contemporary global and national demands.
He further emphasised that sustainable national development requires accountable leadership, strong institutions, and a legal framework that guarantees equal protection and opportunity for all citizens, regardless of status or background.
