Stakeholders in the Justice Sector on Tuesday, converged on Abuja to harmonise and integrate the various justice sector reform initiatives into a clearly articulated policy.

The policy is expected to provide a common direction for the justice sector across the country.

The meeting, which is under the auspices of the Ministry of Justice, drew participants across relevant institutions under the justice sector.

The summit, which commenced with a technical session has as its theme;”Reforming the Justice System for National Development”.

Declaring the summit open, the Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami,SAN, said the harmonisation became necessary as there was no consensus among justice sector institutions.

The need for a National Policy on Justice arose due to the absence of a policy that addresses the imperative of building consensus among justice sector institutions and practitioners.

This is for the purpose of addressing collectively, the various challenges confronting the justice system in the country and evolving a justice system that is fairer, more effective, accessible, efficient and responsive to the hopes and aspirations of the people.

Malami, who spoke through Solicitor-General of the Federation, Taiwo Abidogun said the reform in the justice sector was a critical component of the overall agenda of the current administration to fight corruption.

The attorney-general, who doubles as the Minister of Justice said the policy was expected to set out a common vision and provide the guidelines for promoting effective and efficient administration of justice in the country.

Chairman, Technical Policy Drafting Committee, Muhammad Tabiu,SAN, said the goal of the policy was to achieve a justice system that inspired public confidence and ensured a flourishing economy.

Tabiu, who gave a general overview of the policy, highlighted some of its objectives to include ensuring fair and speedy dispensation of justice and effective enforcement of court decisions.

Other objectives of the policy, according to him are; “to promote human rights and access to justice for all, promote correctional and restorative justice, promote independence and impartiality of the judiciary.

To engender synergy and cooperation in the sector, ensure openness, transparency and accountability in the sector, strengthen the capacity of the sector and encourage holistic use of information technology.

The climax of the summit will be the validation and adoption of the draft policy.

The policy, upon adoption is expected to serve as the framework upon which relevant government institutions can situate their regulations and legislations.