Welcome Remarks by the Executive Director of CLEEN Foundation at 2 Day Performance Appraisal Workshop on the Legal Framework Parole and the Administration of Criminal Justice Law in Nigeria

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good morning, and welcome to our two-day Performance Appraisal Workshop on the Legal Framework on Parole and the Administration of Criminal Justice in Nigeria. I am pleased to address this esteemed gathering of legal professionals, scholars, and practitioners dedicated to enhancing our criminal justice system. CLEEN Foundation, as a leading organisation within the justice sector, is particularly convinced that stakeholders should be brought together to discuss the need to depoliticise the parole process and standardise the criteria for the selection of inmates.

The administration of justice is the cornerstone of any society that upholds the rule of law, and our collective efforts are pivotal in ensuring that this cornerstone remains robust and effective. This workshop provides an invaluable platform for us to engage in critical discussions, share insights, and evaluate the current state of our legal framework on parole and its broader implications on criminal justice administration in Nigeria.

Parole is a critical component of our justice system, aimed at rehabilitating offenders and reintegrating them into society as law-abiding citizens. It reflects a balance between punitive measures and the need for rehabilitation, recognising that the potential for reform and positive change exists within every individual. However, parole must be underpinned by a sound legal framework and effective administration to achieve its intended outcomes.

Over the next two days, we will delve into various aspects of parole, including its legislative underpinnings, procedural challenges, and the role of different stakeholders in its administration. We will also examine best practices from other jurisdictions, which can serve as benchmarks for improving our system.

I want to take this opportunity to thank all of you for your commitment to this cause. Your presence here today is a testament to your dedication to justice and willingness to contribute to meaningful reforms. I encourage you to actively participate in the discussions, share your experiences and insights, and collaborate on developing practical solutions that can be implemented in our legal and judicial processes.

In conclusion, I am confident this workshop will be enlightening and productive. Together, we can work towards a more efficient and humane criminal justice system that punishes wrongdoing and promotes rehabilitation and reintegration. We thank the MacArthur Foundation for providing the needed financial support for this event.

Thank you for your attention, and I look forward to fruitful discussions.

Welcome again, and let us embark on this journey of reflection, learning, and progress.

Thank you.

Gad Peter

Executive Director