Nigerian President Urges Judges to Understand Blockchain and Crypto
Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on judges to learn about blockchain, cryptocurrency, and digital systems. He said this knowledge is crucial to fight modern financial crimes effectively.
Speaking at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)–National Judicial Institute (NJI) Workshop in Abuja, Tinubu was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima. He stressed that corruption is evolving quickly, and the justice system must keep pace.
According to local reports, Tinubu said judges need to understand digital currencies to deliver fair judgments in crypto fraud cases. He asked, “How does one do justice in a cryptocurrency fraud case except one is grounded in such matters?”
Judges Must Keep Learning in the Digital Age
Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the Vice President on Media and Communications, shared a statement from Tinubu. The President said judges must keep learning to stay relevant in today’s digital world.
“Learning and relearning is no longer a buzz phrase but an essential undertaking for continued relevance in this digital age,” Tinubu said. He urged judicial officers to remain honest and independent. He warned that any compromise weakens Nigeria’s moral strength.
Tinubu also said the government is working to improve judges’ welfare and strengthen judicial independence.
Addressing Delays in Corruption Trials
The President highlighted delays in corruption trials. He noted that many Nigerians are unhappy with slow judgments in major cases. Meanwhile, smaller cybercrime cases are resolved faster.
Tinubu urged the judiciary to adopt new technology to speed up justice. He warned, “Your vantage position on the Bench does not insulate you from the consequences of corruption.”
He added, “There are no special roads, hospitals, or communities for judges. A Nigeria free of corruption is possible if we all commit to doing what is right.”
