News Highlights:
- Judicial Role in Digital Transformation
- Strengthening Judicial Capacity for Technological Cases
Chief Justice of Nigeria and Chairman, Board of Governors, National Judicial Institute, Hon. Justice K.M.O. Kekere-Ekun has emphasized the critical role the judiciary plays in accelerating Nigeria’s digital transformation by addressing emerging legal issues in the telecommunications sector.
Speaking during her keynote address at the 2024 National Workshop For Justices And Judges On Legal Issues In Telecommunications, held in Lagos on Monday, Justice Kekere-Ekun highlighted the importance of protecting consumer data from misuse and addressing the vulnerabilities in online banking transactions, which often lead to disputes requiring judicial intervention.
“There is for instance the major challenge posed by electronically backed transactions which is common place in the Banking Sector. Concerns in this regard include the spate of customers whose online banking platforms have been hacked, as well as banks being compromised due to technological glitches not factored into their day to day operations. Consequently, these and several other challenges have resulted in a number of disputes which frequently require adjudication,” Justice Kekere-Ekun said.
This year’s workshop, themed The Role of the Judiciary in Accelerating Digital Transformation in Nigeria, aims to strengthen the capacity of judicial officers in navigating legal challenges posed by digital advancements, particularly in areas of cybersecurity, data protection, and the increasing reliance on digital platforms in the banking sector.
The Chief Justice expressed optimism that the workshop would provide a platform for judicial officers to gain insights into global standards and best practices in telecommunications law, equipping them to adjudicate cases with technical expertise.
She also acknowledged NCC’s efforts to protect consumers and assured that the judiciary remains committed to fostering transparency and coherence in interpreting telecommunications laws, which is crucial for building investor and stakeholder confidence in the sector.
Justice Kekere-Ekun thanked the NJI’s Education Committee Chair, Hon. Justice John Inyang Okoro, the NJI Administrator, Hon. Justice Salisu Garba Abdullahi, NCC EVC/CEO, Dr. Aminu Maida, and all participants for their contributions to the workshop and urged attendees to engage actively and leverage the opportunity to update their knowledge in telecommunications law.
Digital TimesNG reports that the workshop was organized by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) in partnership with the National Judicial Institute (NJI) and aimed to ign Nigeria’s judicial processes with the evolving digital landscape, supporting a secure and inclusive digital economy for the nation.