The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the National Judicial Institute (NJI) have called for reforms in Nigeria’s justice system to accelerate corruption trials, prevent the abuse of court procedures and strengthen the prosecution of financial crimes.
The call was made in a communiqué issued at the end of the 8th Capacity Building Workshop for Justices and Judges, held in Abuja from October 13 to 15, 2026.
The three-day workshop, organised by the EFCC in collaboration with the NJI, brought together judicial officers, investigators and prosecutors to discuss the challenges associated with investigating and prosecuting financial crimes, particularly in an increasingly digital environment.
Participants recommended the appointment of specialised judges and court officials to handle corruption cases, alongside targeted training to improve the consistent application of relevant laws.
They also proposed a review of applicable provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act where necessary, noting that reforms should promote speedy trials without undermining the rights of defendants.
The communiqué further called on investigative and prosecutorial agencies to improve their standards of investigation and management of digital evidence to ensure that cases presented before courts are supported by credible and admissible materials.
On the handling of confessional statements, participants recommended video recording and other safeguards to protect suspects’ rights and maintain the integrity of criminal investigations.
The workshop also highlighted the importance of asset recovery in the fight against corruption, describing non-conviction-based asset forfeiture as “an effective tool for recovery of stolen assets”.
However, participants stressed that the process must comply with established legal procedures, respect human rights and remain subject to effective institutional oversight.
They also called for procedural changes that would permit extensions of time for freezing assets suspected to be proceeds of financial crimes.
As technology continues to influence criminal activities and court proceedings, the participants urged anti-corruption agencies, the National Assembly and the Judiciary to develop guidelines for the use of artificial intelligence in the administration of justice.
They also advocated increased investment in digital forensic laboratories, technology infrastructure and specialised training to strengthen the capacity of law enforcement and judicial institutions to handle complex financial crime cases.
Judicial officers and law enforcement personnel were further encouraged to familiarise themselves with existing laws regulating virtual assets, including the Investment and Securities Act 2025 and the Proceeds of Crime Act 2022.
The communiqué also recommended that the NJI and the National Judicial Council introduce accredited certification programmes for judges and other stakeholders in the justice sector.
Participants said stronger cooperation among institutions involved in investigation, prosecution and adjudication would be essential to improving the handling of economic and financial crimes in Nigeria.
The recommendations come amid continuing efforts by anti-corruption agencies and judicial institutions to address delays in financial crime cases and strengthen the country’s justice system.
