By Umar Ismaila, Sokoto
The Nigerian Bar Association has been urged to take a leading role in strengthening grassroots justice and national security, as Nigeria continues to grapple with complex security challenges.
Speaking at the opening of the 2026 Law Week of the Sokoto Branch of the NBA, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Olatunji Fagbemi, emphasized that sustainable security begins at the community level, not just through federal institutions.
Fagbemi noted that many national security threats, including terrorism and communal violence, often originate from unresolved local disputes, stressing that community-based justice systems are critical in preventing escalation.
He called on legal practitioners to bridge the gap between the law and the people by promoting access to justice, alternative dispute resolution, and pro bono services, particularly for vulnerable groups.
The Attorney-General also highlighted recent efforts by the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to strengthen local government autonomy, describing it as a key step toward improving grassroots governance and addressing the root causes of insecurity.
On prosecution of terrorism cases, Fagbemi revealed that the Ministry of Justice recently secured hundreds of convictions, reaffirming government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law.
He further advocated for the establishment of state police to enhance community-level security response, while urging stronger collaboration between legal practitioners, traditional institutions, and other stakeholders.
The Minister also charged lawyers to go beyond courtroom duties to serve as agents of peace and stability, noting that a secure Nigeria can only be achieved when justice is accessible and visible at the grassroots.
The Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, who declared the law week opened said his administration remains committed to strengthening the justice system and upholding the rule of law.
He also highlighted the cordial relationship between the state government and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), noting ongoing efforts to strengthen the justice system.
According to him, these efforts include the regular promotion of judicial officers and the execution of projects aimed at creating a conducive working environment for the judiciary.
He disclosed that his administration had recruited 14 new judges—seven for the State High Court and seven for the Shari’ah Court of Appeal and provided them with official vehicles to enhance their efficiency.
Aliyu further revealed that the state government had awarded a N4 billion contract for the construction of a new High Court complex, alongside another contract for the rehabilitation of the Shari’ah Court of Appeal.
“Additional contracts have also been approved for the construction of three office complexes for the State Ministry of Justice”, he added.
Governor Aliyu further commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his exceptional leadership, stating that the President is steering Nigeria in the right direction.
Earlier, the Chairman of the NBA, Sokoto State branch, Rasheedat Muhammad, described Aliyu as a dedicated and hardworking leader, commending his support for the association and the strong relationship between the government and the Bar.
She noted that over 300 members registered for the event, marking a record for the state.
The chairman further commended the Attorney General and Minister of Justice for accepting to be in the occasion which signifies their commitment to rule of law and administration of justice.
A major highlight of the occasion was the launch of the Caliphate Law Journal, for which governor Aliyu donated N30 million.
The NBA also honoured him with an “Exceptional Leadership Award” in recognition of his contributions to governance and the promotion of the rule of law.