The Enugu State Government has expanded the Multi Door Courthouse as part of efforts to decongest conventional courts and strengthen the use of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) for commercial and family matters.
Governor Peter Mbah made this known at the opening of the 2025 Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Annual General Conference in Enugu on Sunday. He explained that the facility is positioned to become a model for effective and affordable justice delivery in the South-East.
The governor also disclosed that, in partnership with the NBA and civil society organizations, the state has broadened access to pro bono legal services for indigent citizens and detainees, particularly those in rural areas.
“No one should be too poor to afford justice,” Mbah said.
He further highlighted that the administration had undertaken a comprehensive review and codification of outdated state laws to reflect modern realities, ensure gender justice, and improve the business environment in Enugu.
Other justice sector reforms outlined by the governor include: Full implementation of financial autonomy for the judiciary, in line with the Constitution, to strengthen independence and efficiency, Rehabilitation and digitization of courtrooms across all three senatorial zones, now equipped with e-filing, virtual hearing facilities, and integrated case management systems, Introduction of real time court transcription and verbatim reporting, eliminating delays caused by longhand recording and improving productivity.
Mbah stressed that the reforms were not ends in themselves but part of a broader vision to position Enugu as the preferred destination for investment, innovation, and inclusive development, supported by quality education, healthcare, and secure communities.
The opening ceremony was chaired by the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III, while the keynote address was delivered by Julius Malema, leader of South Africa’s Economic Freedom Fighters.
