The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has advocated for enhanced collaboration between the National Assembly and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to drive judicial reforms and strengthen public confidence in Nigeria’s justice system.
Kalu made the call on Wednesday when he received a delegation from the NBA, led by its President, Mazi Afam Osigwe (SAN), at the National Assembly in Abuja.
He emphasized that the 10th House has placed justice sector reforms at the core of its legislative agenda, using bills, motions, and oversight functions to promote transparency and efficiency.
“The House is restoring public confidence in the justice system through inclusive and evidence-based reforms,” Kalu stated.
Highlighting Nigeria’s 120th position out of 142 countries in the 2024 Rule of Law Index, Kalu stressed that the rating underscores the urgent need for continuous reform through strong partnership between the Bar and the Legislature.
As Chairman of the House Committee on Constitution Review, he assured that the ongoing amendment process would incorporate inputs from legal practitioners, the judiciary, and civil society.
Kalu cited several reform bills currently under consideration, including those aimed at increasing the number of judges, improving remuneration for judicial officers, and enhancing access to justice.
“The rule of law is not sustained by courts alone; it is sustained by a culture of justice that flows from Parliament to the people,” he concluded.
