The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) and the Hague Institute for Innovation of Law (HIIL) have formalized a partnership to advance justice reforms that prioritize the needs of ordinary citizens.
The agreement, signed at the NGF Secretariat in Abuja, aims to implement people-focused justice initiatives across all 36 states, ensuring that the legal system becomes more accessible, affordable, and responsive.
NGF Director-General Dr. Abdulateef Shittu described the MoU as a move toward structured, long-term collaboration designed to deliver measurable results for Nigerian communities.
He emphasised that the partnership builds on previous engagement between the two institutions, which included research-driven initiatives such as the Justice Needs and Satisfaction in Nigeria 2023 Report.
“The report provides a clear picture of citizens’ experiences with justice, highlighting gaps and informing targeted reforms,” Shittu explained.
“Our goal is to ensure justice is fair, efficient, and responsive, particularly at state and local levels.”
He stressed that the MoU was more than symbolic; it establishes a framework for experimentation, learning, and innovation to create tangible improvements in justice delivery.
Shittu also acknowledged HIIL’s technical expertise and international perspective, which have enriched national discussions on legal reform.
The partnership would focus on resolving real-world challenges, including land and family disputes, commercial conflicts, and barriers to accessing essential services.
HIIL has long worked in Nigeria, promoting initiatives that integrate formal and informal justice systems with measurable outcomes for citizens.
According to Shittu, the NGF expects the collaboration to produce practical solutions that strengthen institutions, enhance public trust, and improve efficiency in justice delivery across the country.
Both the NGF and HIIL affirmed their commitment to using data, innovation, and cooperation to make justice more citizen-centered, with specific programs to be rolled out progressively under the MoU framework.
