The Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State, Justice Ekaete Fabian-Obot, has called for the integration of Artificial Intelligence in Nigeria's justice administration. On September 26, 2026, she delivered a lecture titled “Justice in the Age of Artificial Intelligence – Transforming Nigeria’s Justice Sector through the Efficient Use of Artificial Intelligence,” at the 2026/2027 Legal Year event in Akwa Ibom. Fabian-Obot emphasized that technology must serve justice, not control it.
Justice Fabian-Obot noted that the judiciary cannot afford to ignore rapid technological advancements. She stressed that AI adoption in the justice sector must be guided by judicial values, ethics, transparency, and the need to preserve judicial independence and integrity. According to her, AI can improve efficiency by assisting with legal research, case management, and documentation.
The Chief Judge highlighted that AI should complement, not replace, judicial officers' judgment, discretion, and responsibility. She emphasized that technological innovations must enhance access to justice, improve efficiency, and boost public confidence in the judiciary. Fabian-Obot expressed gratitude to God and thanked Governor Pastor Umo Eno for supporting the judiciary's needs.
Governor Pastor Umo Eno, represented by Deputy Governor Sen. Akon Eyakenyi, congratulated the judiciary on their robust relationship with the executive. He pledged his administration's commitment to strengthening this relationship, citing projects like the 50-unit Judiciary Quarters and a new Court of Appeal complex under construction in Uyo.
The Governor disclosed that the Judiciary Quarters would be commissioned and handed over to the judiciary during the new Legal Year. Additionally, a law establishing the Office of the Public Defender was passed earlier in the year and would become operational soon. These initiatives aim to improve access to justice and strengthen the judiciary.
Justice Fabian-Obot and Governor Eno's efforts reflect a broader push to modernize Nigeria's justice sector. By leveraging technology and enhancing infrastructure, stakeholders aim to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the judicial system. The integration of AI and other innovations is expected to transform the sector.
The event marked a significant milestone in Akwa Ibom State's judicial landscape. As the new Legal Year commences, stakeholders are optimistic about the prospects of a more efficient and effective justice system. The collaboration between the executive and judiciary is expected to yield positive outcomes for the state's residents.
Key points
- Akwa Ibom State Chief Judge, Justice Ekaete Fabian-Obot, advocates for the use of Artificial Intelligence in Nigeria's justice sector.
- Technology should complement, not replace, judicial officers' judgment, discretion, and responsibility.
- The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, pledges to strengthen the existing cordiality between the executive and the judiciary.
