The Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN), has called on State Counsel to embrace excellence, professionalism, innovation, and accountability in the discharge of their duties.
Eko Hot News reports that The charge was delivered during the 2026 Mid-Year Meeting with State Counsel held at the Adeyemi-Bero Auditorium, Alausa, Lagos. The meeting was themed “Enhancing Service Delivery, Professional Excellence, and Justice Sector Reform.”
Pedro described the Ministry of Justice as the principal legal institution of the Lagos State Government, entrusted with promoting justice, upholding the rule of law, and providing responsive legal services across government agencies.
He noted that the Ministry plays a critical role in governance through legislative development, law reform, dispute resolution, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
The Attorney-General reminded participants that their work directly impacts millions of Lagos residents, stressing that every legal opinion, prosecution, defence, and policy document carries significant consequences for individuals and communities.
According to him, legal practitioners must remain conscious of the human element behind every file and ensure fairness, diligence, and professionalism in their work.
Pedro emphasized the importance of continuous performance evaluation and accountability across all departments within the Ministry.
He disclosed that strategic engagements would be held with heads of directorates and senior officers before the end of the year to strengthen institutional efficiency and capacity development.
The Commissioner also encouraged State Counsel to embrace emerging technologies transforming legal practice around the world.
He highlighted digital tools such as e-filing systems, virtual hearings, electronic records management, legal research technologies, and artificial intelligence as essential resources for modern legal service delivery.
Pedro, however, urged officers to maintain high standards of professionalism while ensuring compliance with data protection and cybersecurity requirements.
Speaking on mentorship, the Attorney-General encouraged younger lawyers to pursue continuous learning and professional growth.
He assured officers that leadership opportunities within the Ministry would continue to be based on competence, integrity, commitment, and performance.
Pedro reaffirmed his vision of positioning the Lagos State Ministry of Justice as the leading public law office in Nigeria.
He also praised the achievements of the Ministry’s alumni who have distinguished themselves in the judiciary, legal profession, and public service.
Also speaking at the event, Justice Iyabo Muyibat Oshodi of the Lagos State High Court encouraged State Counsel to remain committed to excellence and professional growth.
Drawing from her personal experience within the Ministry before her appointment to the Bench, she urged officers not to become discouraged by temporary challenges.
Justice Oshodi noted that dedication, integrity, and consistency eventually produce positive results and career advancement.
She encouraged legal officers to remain focused on their responsibilities and continue contributing meaningfully to the justice sector.
Earlier, the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga, described the gathering as an important platform for reflection and institutional improvement.
According to him, the meeting provided an opportunity to assess the Ministry’s achievements during the first half of the year and identify areas requiring further attention.
Oyenuga said the Ministry remains committed to innovation, accountability, efficiency, and improved legal service delivery.
He urged participants to maximize the opportunities offered by the meeting to strengthen their professional skills and enhance service to the public.
The event also featured discussions focused on justice sector reforms, institutional effectiveness, and strategies for improving legal operations within the Lagos State Public Service.
Participants exchanged ideas on best practices and explored ways to strengthen the Ministry’s role in supporting good governance.
In her vote of thanks, the Permanent Secretary of the Citizens Mediation Bureau, Mrs. Aderinsola Olanrewaju, appreciated the Attorney-General, guest speakers, panelists, and participants for contributing to the success of the meeting.
She noted that the insights shared during the gathering would support ongoing efforts to improve service delivery and strengthen justice administration in Lagos State.
The 2026 Mid-Year Meeting reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to building a more efficient, innovative, and responsive justice system capable of meeting the evolving needs of Lagos residents.
