NJI urges court staff to embrace technology, uphold ethics
The Administrator of the National Judicial Institute, Justice Babatunde Adejumo, has called on court staff to embrace digital innovation, uphold ethical standards, and maintain professionalism in the discharge of their duties, stressing their critical role in shaping public perception of the justice system.
Justice Adejumo made the remarks on Monday at the opening ceremony of the 2025 Hybrid National Workshop on Court Process Management, held at the National Judicial Institute in Abuja.
Addressing participants, including Registrars, Clerks, Bailiffs, Confidential Secretaries, Protocol Officers, and other administrative staff from across the judiciary, the NJI Administrator underscored the importance of adapting to the demands of modern justice administration.
He noted that court staff often serve as the first point of contact for members of the public, and the impression they create frequently leaves a lasting perception of the judiciary.
“The Workshop evidently reflects a recognition and deep appreciation of the central role that our Registrars, Commissioners for Oaths, Clerks, Bailiffs, Confidential Secretaries, Protocol and Information Officers, Public Relations Officers, and all other administrative staff play in the smooth and effective delivery of justice in our courts.
“Distinguished participants, more than ever before, the demands of modern justice administration require that you embrace innovation, maintain ethical standards, and deliver services with a keen sense of responsibility.
“You must constantly bear in mind that the impression you create in the discharge of your duties is often the first and lasting one that court users will continue to carry with them, and which will invariably shape their perception of the justice system. Hence, as vital enablers of justice, it behoves you to be diligent and to maintain a high standard of professionalism at all times,” he said.
Justice Adejumo also highlighted the transformative role of technology in the justice sector, urging court personnel to familiarise themselves with modern tools such as electronic filing systems, case tracking platforms, and digital record management.
He warned against any form of misconduct, stressing that ethical lapses could have damaging consequences on public trust in the judiciary.
“There is no gainsaying the fact that court services are the operational backbone of the judiciary. I can confidently say this from a vantage point, having served as a Deputy Chief Registrar in the Supreme Court of Nigeria several years ago. I am therefore greatly pleased that this particular workshop coincides with my first official outing as the Administrator of this reputable Institute, as it feels to me that I am amongst kindred spirits.
“You must recognise that digital transformation is rapidly redefining the landscape of judicial administration. From case tracking systems to electronic filing and record management, technology is now integral to judicial effectiveness. Consequently, I encourage you to be receptive to these tools and to utilise them in enhancing your functions.
“Lastly, I must highlight the fundamental role that ethical conduct plays in bolstering public trust in the judiciary. Thus, any form of impropriety, unethical conduct, or lapses in your behaviour can have far-reaching consequences. To this end, you must consistently demonstrate integrity and desist from engaging in activities that may bring the judiciary into disrepute. Also, as custodians of sensitive information and processes, you must consciously place a premium on accountability and confidentiality,” he stated.
Highlighting the theme of the Workshop — “Building a Stronger Judiciary Through Effectiveness” — Justice Adejumo noted that it aligns with one of the Institute’s core objectives: promoting efficiency, uniformity, and improvement in the quality of judicial services in both superior and lower courts.
He added that the theme also underscores the importance of strengthening public trust and institutional competence through improvements in court administration, stressing that the workshop offers a platform for skills enhancement, knowledge sharing, and exposure to evolving best practices.
In this regard, Justice Adejumo disclosed that the programme had been carefully curated to address key issues.
“Over the next few days, seasoned Moderators and Resource Persons will be sharing their expertise and invaluable insights on managing court calendars and scheduling hearings and trials; supporting remote hearings and virtual courtrooms; e-filing and digital record keeping; the Code of Conduct for Court Employees of the Federal Republic of Nigeria; and other key issues related to your roles,” he added.