Stakeholders in Kano State’s justice sector have reiterated their commitment to reforming the legal system, improving access to justice, and addressing key challenges hindering effective service delivery particularly for marginalized populations.
This was disclosed during a validation workshop organized by the Kano State Justice Sector Reform Team (JSRT), on Tuesday.
The Kano Justice Sector Reform Team is a multi-stakeholder body established in 2002 to drive reforms within the justice system in Kano State.
Chaired by the Attorney General, the JSRT serves as a collaborative platform where representatives from key justice institutions including the Ministry of Justice, judiciary, law enforcement, civil society, and legal associations convene regularly to identify challenges, propose solutions, and implement strategies that enhance access to justice.
Mustapha Muhammad, the Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary of the Kano State Ministry of Justice, emphasized the longstanding role of the JSRT in driving reforms and enhancing justice delivery for the poor and vulnerable.
“He noted that the JSRT has been making significant impacts, which allows for justice institutions to meet monthly and jointly address sector challenges.
He cited recent achievements influenced by the team’s recommendations, such as the state government’s sponsorship of lawyers to attend the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) conference, and the increase in robe allowances for magistrates and legal practitioners.
“These improvements were made possible through the JSRT’s engagement with the governor, who has always been supportive.
“The team also proposed equipping magistrate courts across the state, and the governor has approved it. We are making impact and we will do more,” he said.
Mohammed Tabiu, a JSRT member, said the workshop reviewed and validated a strategic work plan that was drafted earlier. He explained that the plan aims to provide focus and structure for the team’s activities in 2025.
“This plan helps us stay aligned with our mandate and identifies challenges within the justice sector.
“It outlines steps for improving the speed and fairness of justice delivery in Kano, addressing issues like inter-agency coordination, community safety, and capacity building,” he said.
He noted that part of the work plan targets crimes like thuggery and neighborhood violence through stronger collaboration between law enforcement agencies.
According to him, efforts will be made to build capacity among police officers, judges, and correctional service personnel to better enforce the law and serve the public.
Fatima Kwaku, a member of the Nigerian Bar Association and FIDA, praised the JSRT’s efforts and stressed the need for implementation.
“We have come up with many new ideas and if we push hard to implement them, they will bring relief to those suffering from legal delays and lack of access,” she stated.
Akibu Hamisu, a representative of the Open Government Partnership (OGP) in Kano, described the JSRT’s work as a vital component of government reform efforts.
“The action plan aligns with OGP’s core areas like access to justice, fairness, equity, and anti-corruption,” Hamisu explained.
He called for greater government commitment to the JSRT.
He added: “For years, the committee has not met as required. We hope this renewed effort will receive adequate support and funding to thrive.”
The event which took place at the State’s Ministry of Justice brought together legal professionals, government officials, and civil society representatives to finalize a work plan aimed at transforming the justice landscape in the state.
