The CLEEN Foundation has launched a two-day capacity development workshop in Benue State to reinforce criminal justice delivery and strengthen cooperation among policing, judicial, and law enforcement bodies.
Representing the Acting Executive Director, Mr Peter Maduoma, at the event, Dr Gabriel Akinremi explained that the initiative is part of a national project titled “Strengthening Rights-Based Approach to ACJA Frameworks and Advancing Women, Peace, and Security in Nigeria.”
Funded by the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs through the Norwegian Embassy in Nigeria, the project seeks to enhance rights-based practices within the criminal justice system. Dr Akinremi commended the Norwegian Ambassador, His Excellency Svein Baera, for his consistent support and collaboration in promoting justice sector reforms across the country.
He revealed that the ongoing project, launched in Abuja on August 26, 2025, is currently being executed in twelve states, Enugu, Imo, Lagos, Ekiti, Plateau, Benue, Nasarawa, Kaduna, Jigawa, Adamawa, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom.
According to him, the Benue workshop was specifically designed to equip stakeholders with technical expertise, address gaps in implementation, and provide practical approaches for enforcing the Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL).
“This training aims to empower participants to understand and apply the core principles of the ACJL effectively, foster inter-agency synergy for rights-based law enforcement, and tackle systemic issues such as prolonged trials, prison overcrowding, and human rights violations,” Akinremi stated.
He further noted that CLEEN Foundation would continue leveraging its long-standing experience in justice and security sector reforms to achieve the project’s goals.
“Our focus is to assess ten years of ACJA implementation and push for sustainable policy reforms that improve the delivery of justice in Nigeria,” he added.
Reflecting on CLEEN Foundation’s legacy, Akinremi highlighted the organisation’s 27-year commitment to advancing public safety, accountability, and social justice through research, policy advocacy, and partnerships with government and civil society.
He thanked participants for their dedication and encouraged them to make meaningful contributions during the training sessions.
“Each participant here plays a vital role in strengthening Nigeria’s justice system. Your active involvement will be crucial in driving the reforms we all seek,” he said.