From Umar Dankano, Yola
The Centre for Socio-Legal Studies (CSLS), in collaboration with the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) program and the Federal Ministry of Justice, has organized a two-day capacity-building workshop for justice sector operators in Adamawa State.
The workshop, held in Yola, aims to ensure the adoption of the National Minimum Standards (NMS) for implementing the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) in line with global best practices.
In his address, CSLS President, Professor Yemi Akinseye-George (SAN), stated that the training seeks to strengthen justice delivery by promoting a deeper understanding of the NMS among stakeholders. He highlighted the workshop’s collaborative nature, involving CSLS, the Federal Ministry of Justice, and ACJA Rangers across the FCT and seven focal states, with funding support from RoLAC/IIDEA International.
“This workshop consolidates the gains made in implementing the ACJA. The NMS serves as a tool for reform and impact measurement, adopted by the body of Attorneys-General and Solicitors-General nationwide,” he said.
State Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Yola Branch, Barrister Idi Ali, emphasized the importance of the training in improving justice sector operations. He noted that the ACJA has addressed issues such as trial delays and overcrowding through its innovative provisions.
“This training is critical for lawyers, prosecutors, and adjudicators at the lower court level. While ACJA has brought progress, we are still transitioning from outdated procedural laws. However, significant improvements are evident, particularly in high court trials,” Ali said.
Adamawa State CSLS Coordinator, Chiamaka Nnadika Anyaegbu, explained that the workshop validates the NMS adopted by the Attorney General of the Federation and states. She noted that the evaluation will assess Adamawa’s compliance with ACJA implementation standards.
“The NMS ensures all states are evaluated equally on their implementation of the ACJL. This workshop assesses Adamawa’s progress and adherence to the law,” Anyaegbu added.