Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, advised magistrates on Monday to conduct themselves in a manner that upholds the integrity and independence of the judiciary.

Justice Ariwoola urged magistrates to avoid unnecessary delays in delivering justice, emphasizing that the essence of justice lies in its prompt and fair administration.

He stressed the importance of balancing the duration of proceedings with the quality of outcomes to prevent both undue delays and compromised integrity.

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Speaking during the opening ceremony of the 2023 induction course for 100 newly appointed magistrates in Abuja, Justice Ariwoola, who also chairs the Board of Governors of the National Judicial Institute, addressed the magistrates on the theme “Strengthening Access to Quality Justice Delivery in the Magistrates’ Courts.”

The event was organized in collaboration with the Judicial College of England and Wales.

Representatives from the Judicial College of England and Wales, including Deputy Senior District Judge Tanweer Ikram and Circuit Judge Rachel Karp, stressed the need for ongoing multidisciplinary judicial training to enhance integrity, impartiality, expertise, and accountability.

Justice Salisu Abdullahi, the administrator of the National Judicial Institute, cautioned the magistrates against engaging in corrupt practices and reminded them of their commitment to the Code of Conduct for Judicial Officers and the Oath of Office.