The Nigerian judiciary has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting climate action and sustainable development, assuring Nigerians that the courts will play a strategic role in addressing climate-related challenges.

The assurance was given by the Administrator of the National Judicial Institute (NJI), Hon. Justice B.A. Adejumo, during the Climate Change Awareness Tour Programme organised by the Climate Change Office of the Presidency.

Justice Adejumo delivered a goodwill message on behalf of the Nigerian Judiciary, stating that the courts would not disappoint Nigerians in advancing climate governance and ensuring accountability on climate-related issues.

He noted that the legal and judicial community across the world increasingly recognises climate change as an issue that affects fundamental human rights, public accountability, intergenerational equity and sustainable development.

According to him, the role of the courts in climate governance is both significant and evolving, particularly as climate-related disputes continue to gain prominence.

Justice Adejumo said the judiciary remains prepared to address emerging environmental challenges through effective adjudication of climate-related cases.

He also highlighted the importance of the National Judicial Institute in strengthening the capacity of judicial officers, describing the institute as central to equipping judges with the knowledge and skills required to handle emerging environmental and climate-related matters.

The NJI administrator added that climate change programmes provide important opportunities for collaboration among institutions and stakeholders, noting that such partnerships would help strengthen Nigeria’s collective response to climate risks and opportunities.

The Climate Change Awareness Tour Programme was organised by the Climate Change Office of the Presidency as part of efforts to deepen national awareness and institutional collaboration on climate action.

The statement was signed by the Head of Information, Media and Public Relations at the National Judicial Institute, Kolade Umoru.