Judiciary essential to national stability — Uba Sani

Governor Uba Sani has described the judiciary as a fundamental pillar of modern society, saying it remains essential to safeguarding constitutional order, civil liberties, due process and social stability.

Speaking on Monday at the commissioning of the Justice Muhammadu Bello Bar Centre in Kaduna, the governor said the judiciary continues to serve as a trusted institution citizens turn to during times of national uncertainty.

He stressed that the independence and integrity of the justice sector must be protected at all times, noting that no democratic system can function effectively without a strong and credible judiciary.

“As a government, we fully recognise the pivotal role of the judiciary and the legal profession in sustaining democratic stability, advancing peaceful coexistence, protecting rights and deepening public confidence in governance,” he said.

Governor Uba Sani added that his administration remains committed to strengthening judicial infrastructure, improving access to justice and supporting reforms that enhance institutional capacity within the legal system.

He warned that societies cannot achieve sustainable development where the rule of law is weak or where justice is inaccessible to ordinary citizens.

Describing the theme of the NBA Kaduna Branch Law Week 2026, “ACTIVATE! Empowering Lawyers in the Digital Age,” as timely, the governor said technological advancement is reshaping governance, commerce and legal practice globally.

He urged legal practitioners to embrace innovation and develop technological competence while maintaining the ethical foundations of the profession.

“Lawyers must be intellectually agile, globally aware and uncompromising in their commitment to justice and professional responsibility,” he said.

Also speaking at the event, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, commended the commissioning of the Bar Centre, describing it as a symbol of the legal profession’s resilience and progress.

He praised Governor Uba Sani for his support in completing the project and paid tribute to the late Justice Mohammed Bello, former Chief Justice of Nigeria, describing him as an icon of judicial integrity whose legacy remains significant in Nigerian jurisprudence.

Fagbemi said the Bar Centre should serve as an intellectual hub for legal education, policy dialogue and professional development, while encouraging collaboration among the Bar, Bench and Executive in strengthening governance and justice delivery.

Also, President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Afam Osigwe, commended the Kaduna Branch for completing the project and urged other branches to invest in infrastructure that can support legal practice and generate revenue.

He also emphasized that cooperation between the legal profession and government should not undermine the independence of the Bar, noting that constructive criticism remains essential to strengthening democracy and the rule of law.