Peter Mbah, the Governor of Enugu State, addressed the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) at their 2025 Annual General Conference in Enugu, emphasizing the profound role of law as the nation’s conscience. He underscored that lawyers are not merely courtroom advocates but also upholders of truth, peace, and equity. Mbah articulated his administration’s commitment to justice sector reform, a cornerstone of his governance agenda. He linked the conference theme, “Stand Out, Stand Tall,” to the shared responsibility of lawyers and leaders in upholding the principles of justice.
Governor Mbah detailed specific initiatives undertaken by his administration to bolster the justice system in Enugu State. He highlighted the state’s pioneering implementation of financial autonomy for the judiciary, aligning with constitutional provisions and fostering judicial independence and efficiency. This autonomy, he argued, enhances the dignity of the courts and promotes impartial decision-making. Furthermore, Mbah outlined the government’s investment in modernizing court infrastructure, including the rehabilitation and digitization of courtrooms across the state’s three senatorial zones. The High Court Complex in Enugu now boasts e-filing capabilities, virtual hearing facilities, and an integrated case management system, streamlining processes and enhancing accessibility.
Recognizing the importance of alternative dispute resolution in decongesting courts and facilitating amicable settlements, Mbah explained the expansion and strengthening of the Enugu Multi-Door Courthouse. This initiative serves as a regional model for resolving commercial and family disputes, offering a less adversarial and more efficient path to resolution. He emphasized his government’s collaborative efforts with civil society organizations and the NBA to broaden access to pro bono legal services, particularly for indigent citizens and detainees in rural areas, ensuring legal representation for vulnerable populations.
To modernize the legal framework and align it with contemporary societal needs, Governor Mbah’s administration embarked on a comprehensive review and codification of obsolete laws. This process aimed to reflect current realities, promote gender justice, and create a more conducive environment for businesses to thrive. A significant achievement, Mbah noted, was the introduction of real-time transcription for court proceedings. This innovation eliminates the laborious practice of longhand recording by judges, reduces delays, and significantly improves the overall productivity of the courts.
Governor Mbah stressed that these reforms are not isolated endeavors but rather integral components of a broader vision to transform Enugu State into a prime destination for investment, innovation, and inclusive development. He argued that a robust and trustworthy justice system is essential for achieving this vision, contributing to the creation of smart schools, safe communities, and accessible healthcare for all citizens. The justice system reforms, therefore, underpin the state’s overall development strategy.
The opening ceremony of the NBA conference was a notable event, chaired by the esteemed Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III. Adding an international perspective, the keynote address was delivered by Julius Malema, a prominent member of the South African parliament and leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters, bringing a global context to discussions on law, justice, and societal progress. The presence of such distinguished figures underscored the significance of the conference and its focus on the critical role of law in national development.
