Strengthening Military Justice: A call for legal scholarship in Nigeria

The Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammad Goronyo, has underscored the critical importance of sustained investment in military justice and legal scholarship as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s national security framework.

Speaking at the presentation of the book, “Military Law in Nigeria: A Quick Reference Guide to Practice and Procedure,” in Sokoto on Saturday, the Minister stated that legal scholarship is key to fostering discipline, accountability, and ultimately, national security.

In his remarks as Special Guest of Honour, Goronyo highlighted that a robust and effectively implemented military legal framework is indispensable as Nigeria navigates evolving security challenges.

He stressed that military law is central to upholding professionalism, discipline, and accountability within the Armed Forces.

The Minister lauded the newly published book as both timely and strategic, noting its potential to serve as a practical and accessible guide for military legal procedures, thereby enhancing institutional efficiency and adherence to the rule of law.

The event garnered strong endorsements from a diverse array of stakeholders, including legal professionals, academics, and security experts, who universally recognized the book as a significant contribution to legal scholarship.
They anticipate that the publication will deepen understanding of military law, elevate national security awareness, and provide an invaluable reference for both military personnel and legal practitioners.

Authored by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Professor Ibrahim Abdullahi, the book’s credibility and anticipated impact were particularly emphasized, given Professor Abdullahi’s distinguished standing in the legal profession.

Speakers at the event, reiterated the increasing relevance of military law in addressing contemporary security issues, advocating for a stronger legal framework and better-informed practitioners within the defense and justice sectors.
His Excellency Ahmed Aliyu, the Governor of Sokoto, represented by his Deputy, Idris Muhammad Gobir, commended Goronyo’s impactful contributions to national development.

Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, who chaired the occasion, underscored the book’s significance, particularly its relevance to legal practice in Nigeria concerning governance, security, and institutional accountability.

Professor Ibrahim Abdullahi, the author, acknowledged the Minister Goronyo’s distinguished public service record across the executive, legislative, and judicial arms of government.
Goronyo expressed humility, motivation for the recognition bestowed upon him through the publication, reaffirming his unwavering commitment to nation- building and public service.

He articulated that strong institutions are the bedrock of any stable society, and that the promotion of knowledge, research, and legal discipline is vital for sustainable development.

The Minister urged members of the Armed Forces, legal practitioners, academics, and policymakers to utilize the insights offered in the book to bolster the administration of military justice and reinforce institutional integrity.
He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his prioritization of security and the rule of law under the Renewed Hope Agenda, recognizing these efforts as fundamental to Nigeria’s progress.

Goronyo extended his appreciation to the Sokoto State Government and the event organizers for providing a platform that fosters intellectual engagement and national development.

He also thanked Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko for his continued dedication to public service and Governor Ahmed Aliyu for his commitment to the growth and development of Sokoto State.
The event saw the participation of numerous key stakeholders from the legal, academic, and security sectors.

The consensus among the stakeholders affirmed that the publication significantly enhance professional practice, strengthen legal education, and make a lasting contribution to evolution of military law in Nigeria.

Dignitaries included representatives of the Governors of Kebbi State (His Excellency Dr. Nasir Idris) and Zamfara State (His Excellency Dauda Lawal), the APC Chairman of Sokoto State (Alhaji Haruna S. Adiya), APC Zonal Secretary, North West (Hon. Isa Sadeeq Achida), the Chief Judge of Sokoto State (Hon. Justice Muhammad Sa’idu Sifawa).

Also, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Sokoto State (Barr. Nasiru Mohammed Binji), and the Vice-Chancellor of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (Professor Lawal Suleiman Bilbis), among other distinguished personalities.