Nigeria's judicial system must be strengthened to attract investors and protect businesses, Justice Kazeem Alogba said on Tuesday. The Lagos chief judge made the remarks at the 2026 Global Forensics Summit in the state.
Alogba, represented at the event by Olutoyin Ipaye, stressed that robust courts create business certainty. They also shield property rights, he noted.
Crime has become more complex because of technology. Investigators must now rely on forensic science and data analytics, the judge explained.
Investors want jurisdictions with enforceable contracts. They need places where property is secure and disputes get resolved quickly.
"A credible judiciary guarantees contract enforcement and timely dispute resolution," Alogba noted. Both factors remain critical for investor confidence.
Experts at the four-day summit argue Nigeria cannot fight crime using old policing methods alone. Digital forensics, artificial intelligence, and data analytics are now essential tools.
The summit opened Tuesday at the University of Lagos. Judges, forensic experts, lawyers, security professionals, and policymakers attended the event.
It's organised by the International Academy of Forensics and the Guardian Newspaper Nigeria. Participants discussed how technology can improve justice delivery.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by Aderinsola Olanrewaju of the ministry of justice, highlighted a critical problem. Thousands of criminal cases stall yearly, not due to missing witnesses or suspects.
Evidence that survives court scrutiny is the real issue. "The gap between investigation details and what prosecutors can prove is forensic," Sanwo-Olu said.
Lagos hosts Africa's largest concentration of financial institutions and tech companies. These businesses face escalating criminal threats requiring sophisticated protection.
Sanwo-Olu noted the state commissioned West Africa's first DNA and forensic center in 2017. It's supported investigations involving homicides, sexual offences, and human remains.
Phase two of that project is underway now. It covers toxicology and forensic chemistry work.
Criminal activity in the city has grown increasingly sophisticated. Digital forensics infrastructure is now essential for protecting Lagos's economy.
Dele Olowokudejo, a fellow of the International Academy of Forensics, welcomed participants in his address. He emphasized the summit's role in encouraging collaboration among practitioners.
