The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has announced major reforms aimed at improving the speed and efficiency of the Supreme Court.

Speaking on Monday at the opening ceremony of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Lagos Branch Law Week 2026, the CJN said the Supreme Court would soon begin using a National Case Management System (NCMS) to digitally manage cases from the time they are filed until judgment is delivered.

According to her, the new system will help improve case tracking, reduce delays, strengthen court administration and make the justice system more transparent.

Justice Kekere-Ekun also announced plans by the court to unveil the Supreme Court (Mandatory Upload of Electronic Copies of Processes, Record of Appeal, and Other Matters) Practice Directions, 2026 on July 1, 2026.

According to her, the new Practice Directions will require lawyers to upload electronic copies of court processes and records in addition to the existing paper filing system,

She said the reforms will improve case tracking, strengthen registry administration, reduce delays and make it easier for Justices to access court documents, leading to faster determination of appeals.

“The objective is not merely to digitise existing procedures but to strengthen the administration of justice through carefully considered technological integration that remains faithful to constitutional values and judicial independence,” the CJN said.

Justice Kekere-Ekun stressed that technology should support the work of judges, and not replace them.

“Technology is an instrument of justice; it can never become its substitute,” she said.

She added that while artificial intelligence could help lawyers and judges with research and case management, “the constitutional responsibility for determining rights and obligations must continue to rest with human judges who are accountable under the law for every decision they make”.

The CJN urged lawyers, judges, lawmakers, universities and technology experts to work together to build a digital justice system that reflects Nigeria’s legal system and constitutional values.

She said the reforms are designed not only to modernise the judiciary but also to improve public confidence in the administration of justice through faster, more transparent and accessible court services. (Channels TV)

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