The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola has restated that for an efficient justice system to berth, judicial integrity is crucial.
The CJN stated this in Abuja Monday, while delivering a keynote address at the opening ceremony of the Induction Course for newly appointed Judges of the Area/Sharia/Customary Courts organised by the National Judicial Institute.
The theme of the Induction Course is: Strengthening Judicial Integrity in the Lower Courts.
At the induction ceremony, the CJN noted that judicial Integrity is crucial in establishing not only an efficient justice system but to promote judicial independence, and quality justice delivery.
“My Lords, integrity is central to effective justice administration as a key pre-requisite for establishing an effective and functional justice system for the peaceful resolution of legal disputes.
“As judges of the lower courts, you must be bound by principles of honesty and respect for constituted authority.
“My Lords, the majority of cases decided in your courts are essentially civil in nature and personal, which includes succession, child custody, administration of estates and marital disputes.
“These cases form the foundation of every society, and it is vital to carry out your duties judiciously in maintaining the family structure which every society relies on,” the CJN said.
Ariwoola charged them to remain committed and diligent in the discharge of the onerous responsibilities.
In his welcome address, the administrator of the National Judicial Institute, Justice Salisu Abdulahi tasked the inductee on need to strengthen their approach towards adjudicating the law and effectively addressing the challenges that arise in the course of their duties.
He said the workshop has been instrumental in equipping newly appointed judges with the skills and knowledge necessary for achieving judicial excellence.
