Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC), Mr. Chibuzo Ekwekwuo, has emphasized the importance of integrating technology into Nigeria’s judicial system to build a modern and efficient justice sector.
Ekwekwuo made this remark in Abuja during the 2025 Access to Justice Parley themed “Justice, Security and Governance: A Unified Agenda for Nigeria’s Sustainable Development.”
He stressed that achieving a functional justice system required practical, solution-based discussions involving judges, prosecutors, lawyers, and court administrators.
Drawing from his extensive legal experience, Ekwekwuo highlighted persistent issues such as case delays, missing files, unavailability of witnesses, inadequate logistics for transporting inmates, and challenges faced by bailiffs and legal practitioners.
He noted that the adoption of digital innovations could transform case management, improve communication among justice actors, and strengthen access to justice.
“We have assembled a skilled team of young Nigerians ready to collaborate with the judiciary. PPDC has developed AI tools, digital filing systems, and other applications to enhance court operations,” he said.
Ekwekwuo urged the judiciary to partner with PPDC’s innovation team to co-create and implement technological tools that would modernize judicial processes.
He also appreciated USAID’s contribution to PPDC’s justice reform programs but cautioned that donor funding should not be relied upon indefinitely.
In her keynote address, Justice Eberechi Nyesom-Wike of the High Court called for a justice system founded on integrity, fairness, and accountability. She emphasized that true justice extends beyond the courtroom to protecting society’s most vulnerable members.
According to her, ensuring equity and efficiency in justice delivery is vital to building public trust and upholding the rule of law.
The judge further advocated for the digitization of courtrooms and judicial processes to reduce delays and enhance transparency.
Also speaking, the Chief Executive Officer of Devon Technologies, Mr. Peter Bemshima, highlighted the role of digital platforms in fostering transparency, citing e-connect—a solution that links lawyers with clients and simplifies consultations and payments.
He reiterated that technology-driven reforms are essential to making Nigeria’s justice system more responsive and inclusive.