“Nigeria’s future depends on strong institutions, impartial judiciary” – Jonathan declares

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has called on members of the legal profession to embrace their nation-building responsibilities, saying Nigeria’s future depends on the impartiality of the judiciary, the strength of its institutions and the integrity of its values.

Jonathan spoke on Friday at the opening ceremony of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Yenagoa Branch’s 2026 Law Week in Bayelsa State.

The event was themed: ‘Securing the Future: Sustainable National Asset Protection in Africa; Opportunities, Risks and Regulatory Pathways.’

Speaking during a plenary session, the former president urged legal practitioners and judicial officers to uphold the principles of justice and fairness in the discharge of their duties.

He described members of the bench and bar as custodians of the nation’s legal system and regulatory frameworks.

Jonathan said the country’s well-being and progress were tied to the ability of institutions to function independently and effectively.

The former president said Nigeria could only secure its future if the rule of law prevailed over the influence of powerful individuals.

“As ministers in the temple of justice, I reminded them that the future of our nation can only be secured when justice is stronger than power; when institutions are stronger than individuals; when our post-colonial education system is thoughtfully reformed to meet the demands of a changing world; and when the law affords equal protection to both the powerful and the vulnerable,” he said.

Jonathan also advocated reforms to Nigeria’s education system to ensure it responds effectively to contemporary challenges and global realities.

The former president said sustainable national development would require strong institutions, accountable leadership and equal protection under the law for all citizens.