Abuja: The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has highlighted the importance of ethical conduct, integrity, and professionalism as essential elements in the effort to restore public confidence in the judiciary. She made these remarks during the opening ceremony of the 2026 National Workshop on Judicial Ethics for judges of lower courts, organized by the National Judicial Institute. Justice Kekere-Ekun emphasized that judicial ethics form the cornerstone of judicial legitimacy.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Justice Kekere-Ekun pointed out that for many Nigerians, justice is primarily experienced through lower courts, which act as the main interface between the judiciary and the public. She noted that every interaction, ruling, and exercise of discretion by judges plays a crucial role in shaping public perception of fairness, integrity, and accessibility within the justice system.
Justice Kekere-Ekun further stressed that ethical discipline enhances the authority of the judiciary, while its absence severely undermines public trust and confidence. She asserted that judges must maintain professionalism, impartiality, and dignity, particularly in an era marked by increased public scrutiny and rapid technological advancement.
She also highlighted that judicial officers now operate in a highly visible environment where both courtroom decisions and personal conduct are constantly under evaluation. The CJN underlined that ethical responsibility within the judiciary is both a personal and institutional matter, emphasizing that integrity cannot be delegated.
Acknowledging the human nature of judges, Justice Kekere-Ekun stated that while they are not expected to be infallible, their public roles demand restraint and conduct that preserves the dignity of the bench. She described the workshop as a timely initiative, offering a platform for reflection, knowledge-sharing, and practical engagement with the ethical challenges faced by judicial officers.
Justice Kekere-Ekun commended the efforts of the Education Committee of the Institute, led by Justice Inyang Okoro, for conceptualizing the program, and also praised the Administrator of the Institute, Justice Babatunde Adejumo, a retired judge, for organizing the event. She expressed optimism that the workshop would enhance ethical consciousness, strengthen professional judgment, and equip participants to deliver justice with fairness and integrity.
The Chief Justice concluded by declaring the workshop open and encouraged participants to actively engage in discussions for the improvement of judicial service delivery nationwide.