Former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola recommended creating a public ombudsman office and running user satisfaction surveys to fix court delays in Nigeria’s commercial capital, Lagos.
Speaking at the Lagos State Judiciary New Legal Year Summit on Tuesday in Lekki, Fashola explained that an official ombudsman would give everyday citizens a clear channel to report bad experiences with the legal system.
He stated that professional surveys must evaluate real case durations, enforcement of judgments, and commercial dispute handling to ensure courts deliver proper service.
The former governor stressed that land serves as an important base for business capital, questioning if current court timelines properly support small and medium enterprises.
Reflecting on past reforms during his tenure as governor, such as hiring younger lawyers, introducing front-loading rules, and expanding alternative dispute resolution, Fashola said institutions need regular self-testing to meet modern economic demands.
Chief Justice of Nigeria Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, represented by Administrative Judge Toyin Ipaye, emphasized that fair, swift dispute resolution protects legitimate investments.
Comparing the court system directly to vital economic assets like roads, bridges, power plants, and ports, she noted that business owners require strong guarantees that contracts will be respected and property protected.
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The Chief Justice highlighted current nationwide reforms, including the Supreme Court’s National Case Management System and electronic filing rules, while warning that technology must always serve people directly because courts remain human institutions. She also asked judges and lawyers to maintain professional courtesy during legal disagreements.
Digital access and commercial reforms
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by Attorney-General Lawal Pedro, called for continuous funding in judicial technology, staff training, and physical infrastructure.
He encouraged legal practitioners to build specialised skills in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data protection, and digital transactions to handle modern business claims. Sanwo-Olu also promoted increased use of arbitration and mediation to resolve corporate conflicts outside regular courtrooms.
Chief Judge of Lagos State Kazeem Alogba described the state as the commercial basket of the nation, warning judges to consider how their rulings directly affect the national economy.
To accommodate more participants at future events, Alogba confirmed that the annual legal seminar will combine online streaming with physical attendance after the venue proved too small for the crowd.
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