YENAGOA — Former President Goodluck Jonathan has issued a clarion call for the Nigerian judiciary and legal community to prioritize the strengthening of national institutions and the rigid adherence to the rule of law.

Speaking as the chairman at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Law Week of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Yenagoa Branch, the former President emphasized that the path to a prosperous and stable Nigeria lies in ensuring that state institutions remain independent and functional.

“Justice Stronger Than Power”

The event, themed “Securing the Future: Sustainable National Asset Protection in Africa; Opportunities, Risks and Regulatory Pathways,” served as a platform for Jonathan to address the Bench and the Bar as the primary custodians of the nation's legal system.

In a plenary session that resonated with legal practitioners and judicial officers, Jonathan underscored the need for a shift in how power is exercised in relation to the law:

“The future of our nation can only be secured when justice is stronger than power; when institutions are stronger than individuals;... and when the law affords equal protection to both the powerful and the vulnerable.”

Beyond Legal Reform: Education and National Strength

The former President expanded his address to include a critique of Nigeria’s broader development trajectory. He advocated for a comprehensive reform of the post-colonial education system, arguing that it must be repositioned to meet global standards and the contemporary demands of a rapidly changing world.

Adding a notable perspective on national sovereignty, Jonathan also encouraged a renewed focus on science, technology, and national defense capabilities. He remarked that for Nigeria to command genuine global respect, it must cultivate strength in resources and innovation, stating, “Nobody respects you if you are not strong.”

A Call for Accountability

Jonathan maintained that sustainable development is inextricably linked to three pillars:

  • Accountable Leadership: Leaders must operate within the constraints of the law.

  • Strong Institutions: Agencies must function independently, free from individual influence.

  • Equal Protection: The legal framework must guarantee fairness to every citizen, regardless of status.

The event, which also featured prominent Pan-Africanist Prof. Patrick Lumumba as a keynote speaker, concluded with a shared commitment from the legal community to uphold the professional ethics necessary to safeguard Nigeria’s future.