By EMMANUEL OLONIRUHA

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) and the Hague Institute for Innovation of Law (HIIL) have signed an MoU to advance a people-centred justice agenda nationwide.

The agreement is contained in a statement by NGF Director of Media and Strategic Communications, Tanko Abdullahi, on Saturday in Abuja.

Signed at the NGF Secretariat, the MoU aims to implement people-centred justice reforms across Nigeria’s 36 states.

The agenda seeks to make justice more accessible, affordable and responsive to the needs of ordinary Nigerians.

NGF Director-General, Dr. Abdulateef Shittu, said the agreement marked a shift to structured, long-term collaboration focused on measurable citizen outcomes.

According to Shittu, engagement between both institutions predated the MoU, evolving through sustained, evidence-based cooperation on justice reform.

He cited the Justice Needs and Satisfaction in Nigeria 2023 Report as a defining milestone in the partnership.

Shittu described the report as critical to understanding Nigerians’ justice experiences, persistent gaps and how reforms can be better targeted.

“The report enables policymakers to move beyond assumptions and design interventions that respond directly to citizens’ needs,” he said.

Shittu said the MoU reflected a shared commitment to justice that is accessible, affordable, fair and responsive, especially at subnational levels.

He noted the partnership was anchored on mutual respect, institutional strengths and innovation-driven approaches to justice delivery.

Rather than symbolic, Shittu said the agreement was designed as a platform for experimentation, adaptation and measurable impact.

“This is not merely a symbolic agreement, but a commitment to action, learning and innovation,” he said.

He acknowledged HIIL’s technical expertise and global perspective, which he said had enriched justice reform discussions nationwide.

Shittu expressed optimism that research insights would translate into practical solutions improving trust, efficiency and inclusion.

He said the NGF anticipated tangible outcomes that strengthen institutions and redefine justice delivery for communities.

“The partnership will address real problems, from land and family disputes to commercial conflicts and access to basic services,” he said.

HIIL has worked in Nigeria for several years, promoting people-centred justice focused on outcomes and integrating formal and informal pathways.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that both parties are committed to advancing access to justice through data, innovation and collaboration.

NAN also reports that specific initiatives would be developed over time under the MoU framework. (NAN)

• (L–R) Chief Executive Officer of the Hague Institute for Innovation of Law, Jude Udo Ilo, and Director General of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Abdulateef Shittu, during the signing of an MoU to establish a collaborative framework aimed at promoting people-centred justice across Nigeria, in Abuja on Friday. Photo: NGF Media Unit