By Anthony Ochela, Abuja
The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) on Monday urged justice sector workers to entrench ethical conduct and performance-driven service, declaring that institutions thrive not by structures alone but by the dedication and integrity of their people.
Fagbemi spoke at the year 2025 reward and recognition ceremony in Abuja, where outstanding officers across the justice value chain were honoured.
“The true strength of this Ministry is our staff,” he said, noting that prosecutions, lawmaking, victim protection and reforms are sustained by professionals who often work quietly behind the scenes.
He dedicated the celebration to staff at the headquarters, zonal offices and agencies, including National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, National Human Rights Commission, the Legal Aid Council, the Nigerian Law School, the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies and the Nigerian Law Reform Commission.
The AGF said the initiative aligns with the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2025, ministerial deliverables and the National Policy on Justice, stressing results-driven governance to strengthen the rule of law and improve lives.
He highlighted gains in prosecutions, anti-corruption and terrorism cases, access to justice and human rights protection, crediting staff for accelerating digital reforms, including the Electronic Content Management System launched in December 2025.
Congratulating award recipients for their integrity and innovation, Fagbemi assured all staff that contributions made “without fanfare” remain invaluable, urging renewed professionalism and collaboration so justice is not only done but seen to be done efficiently and compassionately.
In her remarks, the Solicitor-General of the Federation and Permanent Secretary, Beatrice Jedy-Agba, said the ceremony spotlights excellence in a sector whose impact on citizens’ lives is profound but often understated.
She noted that the awards reinforce merit and accountability while promoting mentorship and teamwork.
Earlier, the Director of Human Resource Management, Mabel Erastus, said the third edition of the Ministerial Service Award, held under the theme “Leveraging Technology for a Smart and Agile Public Service”, aims to boost morale, reward performance and foster excellence across the public service.
Among the award recipients were Desiree Guobadia of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies; Awaji Vincent of the Federal Ministry of Justice; Mary-Solange Onyemenam; and Assistant Commandant of Narcotics, Alexander Oche Ejoha.
