For many Nigerians, justice feels out of reach. Court cases drag on for years, challenges of unlawful detentions, and women remain sidelined in peace and security processes. This is the gap our new project seeks to close. In Abuja, we launched our new project Strengthening Rights-Based Approach to ACJA Frameworks and Advancing Women, Peace and Security Agenda in Nigeria, supported by the Royal Norwegian Embassy.

Despite these frameworks, gaps remain in implementation, coordination, and gender responsiveness. The new project is designed to address these gaps and the key is to protecting rights, enhancing accountability, and promoting inclusive peace and security. At the launch, the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN stressed that full implementation of the ACJA across 12 project states will deepen justice delivery and accountability. The Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda was also launched in five states, underlining the critical role of women in peacebuilding.

The Administrator of the National Judicial Institute, Justice Babatunde Adejumo, echoed this call, while Acting Chargé d’Affaires of Norway, Michelle Hovi, reaffirmed Norway’s support for justice and inclusive governance. The event also featured a moving dance-drama performance by the National Troupe, highlighting challenges in Nigeria’s justice system.