(DDM) — Senior judges in Nigeria have issued a strong warning to legal practitioners, urging them to urgently embrace technology and uphold strict judicial ethics or risk rendering the nation’s legal system obsolete in a rapidly evolving global environment.
The warning was delivered on Monday, December 15, 2025, at a legal conference and judicial engagement forum held in Abuja, where judges, senior advocates, and members of the Nigerian Bar Association gathered to discuss the future of legal practice in Nigeria.
The judges stressed that technology has become an unavoidable pillar of modern justice systems worldwide, and Nigeria cannot afford to lag behind if it hopes to maintain credibility and efficiency.
They noted that courts across advanced jurisdictions now rely heavily on digital filing systems, virtual hearings, electronic evidence management, and artificial intelligence-assisted legal research.
According to the judges, Nigerian lawyers who resist technological adaptation risk becoming irrelevant, inefficient, and disconnected from global legal standards.
They emphasized that embracing technology must go hand in hand with strict adherence to professional ethics, warning that innovation without integrity would further damage public trust in the judiciary.
The judges expressed concern over rising reports of unethical conduct among some legal practitioners, including forum shopping, delay tactics, abuse of court processes, and improper interactions with litigants.
They warned that such practices weaken the justice system and erode confidence in the rule of law, which is critical to national stability and economic development.
Background discussions at the event highlighted Nigeria’s long-standing challenges within the justice sector, including case backlogs, slow adjudication processes, and limited access to justice for ordinary citizens.
Experts noted that technology offers practical solutions to many of these problems by reducing delays, increasing transparency, and improving record-keeping across courts.
The judges urged the Nigerian Bar Association to intensify continuous legal education programmes focused on digital skills, cybersecurity awareness, and ethical compliance.
They also called on law faculties to update curricula to reflect emerging global trends such as legal technology, data protection law, and artificial intelligence regulation.
Several speakers warned that Nigeria’s legal profession must evolve alongside changes in commerce, governance, and international relations, or risk losing relevance in cross-border legal engagements.
The forum also addressed the need for judicial officers themselves to lead by example by embracing digital tools while maintaining independence and impartiality.
Judges stressed that ethical discipline remains the backbone of justice, regardless of technological advancement.
They warned that corruption, bias, or compromise within the judiciary would negate any gains achieved through digital reforms.
Participants were reminded that lawyers play a critical role in shaping societal values, defending democratic institutions, and protecting citizens’ rights.
The judges argued that a technologically competent and ethically grounded legal profession is essential for attracting foreign investment and strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.
Reactions from younger lawyers at the event showed strong support for the call, with many describing technology adoption as long overdue.
However, some senior practitioners expressed concern about infrastructure gaps and training costs, urging government support to ensure a smooth transition.
As Nigeria faces increasing legal complexity in a digital age, the judges’ message was clear: adapt, uphold ethics, or risk pushing the legal profession into irrelevance.