LAGOS — The Honorable Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Lagos State, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN), has reeled out the significant strides and achievements recorded by the Ministry of Justice during the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing held in Lagos on Tuesday.
Addressing members of the press, Mr. Pedro emphasized the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to upholding the rule of law, promoting justice reform, and expanding access to legal services across the state. He described the year under review as one marked by innovation, institutional strengthening, and citizen-focused initiatives.
According to the Commissioner, the Ministry successfully handled thousands of criminal and civil cases through its Directorate of Public Prosecutions and Civil Litigation departments, respectively, ensuring timely dispensation of justice while reducing case backlogs. He noted that several high-profile convictions and recoveries were achieved in line with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration’s zero-tolerance stance on crime and corruption.
Mr. Pedro also announced reforms introduced in the legal advisory system, particularly the automation of legal opinion requests and the introduction of digital tracking tools that enhance service delivery to other government ministries and agencies.
In a major boost to law enforcement synergy, the Ministry facilitated stronger inter-agency collaboration between the Office of the Public Defender (OPD), the Directorate for Citizens Rights (DCR), and the Nigeria Police. This collaboration, he said, has improved the protection of vulnerable groups and the enforcement of fundamental human rights.
Speaking on access to justice, the Attorney-General noted that over 10,000 indigent residents of Lagos received free legal representation and mediation services through the OPD and Citizens Mediation Centre (CMC). He said the government has expanded the reach of these services by opening additional CMC offices in underserved local government areas.
Furthermore, Mr. Pedro revealed that the Ministry played a crucial role in drafting and reviewing key legislation, including amendments to laws on tenancy, domestic violence, and environmental protection, all aimed at fostering a safer and more equitable Lagos.
While commending the dedication of legal officers within the ministry, the Attorney-General reiterated the government’s resolve to keep modernizing the justice sector. He called on members of the public to take advantage of the Ministry’s services and remain law-abiding as the state continues to pursue a more inclusive and effective justice system.
The 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing forms part of the Lagos State Government’s tradition of transparency and public accountability, offering a platform for ministries to share progress and connect with residents.
