The Lagos State Ministry of Justice has hosted a delegation from the Department of Justice, Canada, led by the Co-Director of the Canada–Nigeria Justice Cooperation Project, Ms Genevieve Westrope, on an official knowledge-sharing visit focused on strengthening criminal justice processes.
Eko Hot News reports that the visit was designed to deepen understanding of the Ministry’s mandate, institutional framework, and ongoing reforms, with particular emphasis on criminal offences, prosecution processes, gender-based violence, child abuse, and human trafficking.
Addressing the delegation, the Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Lawal Pedro, SAN, expressed appreciation to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his consistent support of the justice sector, noting that the enabling environment provided by the administration has strengthened institutional growth and effective prosecution.
Pedro outlined the Ministry’s central role in criminal prosecution, highlighting sustained efforts to combat gender-based violence, protect children from abuse, and address human trafficking through coordinated legal and institutional responses.
He stressed that inter-agency collaboration, continuous capacity building, and victim-centred approaches remain critical to achieving justice outcomes that are fair, timely, and impactful for vulnerable groups.
The Attorney-General also acknowledged the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs for facilitating the engagement, describing its role as pivotal in fostering international cooperation and advancing justice initiatives that protect women and children.
Earlier, the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Mr Hameed Oyenuga, welcomed the delegation and presented an overview of the Ministry’s structure, responsibilities, and reform agenda aimed at strengthening justice delivery in Lagos State.
In her remarks, Ms Westrope commended Lagos State’s reputation as a leading justice jurisdiction in Nigeria, praising the Ministry’s professionalism, reform efforts, and commitment to protecting vulnerable persons.
The interactive session featured robust discussions on prosecutorial practices, policy frameworks, enforcement challenges, and prospects for future cooperation between both jurisdictions.
Held at Zen Garden, Isaac John, Lagos, the engagement reaffirmed the Lagos State Ministry of Justice’s commitment to institutional learning, strategic partnerships, and the promotion of the rule of law.
