By Hussaini Ibrahim
The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Kano State, Abdulkarim Kabiru Maude, SAN, has called for the strengthening of pro bono legal practice to expand access to justice for vulnerable citizens across Northern Nigeria.
The development was contained in a press statement issued on Thursday by the Ministry’s Public Relations Officer, Najib Lawan Danbazau.
Speaking at the two-day Capacity Building Workshop for Pro Bono Lawyers in Northern Nigeria, themed “Building a Stronger Culture of Justice, Advocacy and Human Rights,” Maude said pro bono services remain a cornerstone of an equitable justice system.
“Pro bono legal service is not charity; it is a duty owed to society. It ensures that justice is not reserved only for those who can afford it, but available to every citizen, regardless of economic status,” he said.
He added that the Yusuf administration is committed to modernising the justice sector and strengthening rights protection mechanisms across the state.
“We are building a justice system that is fair, transparent, and efficient. Our reforms—from digitising case management to revitalising citizens’ rights services—reflect our commitment to justice that truly serves the people,” Maude added.
He highlighted ongoing institutional reforms, including the Department of Citizens’ Rights and a committee reviewing cases of prolonged detention in correctional centres, whose report is currently under government review.
The workshop, organised by Shield for Justice in collaboration with Amnesty International Nigeria and convened by Barrister Audu Bulama Bukarti, brought together lawyers, judges, magistrates, civil society representatives, and law students from across Northern Nigeria.
Presentations were delivered by Prof. Auwalu Yadudu of Bayero University Kano, CISLAC Executive Director Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, and Bukarti.
Maude commended the presenters and participants, describing their contributions as essential to deepening access to justice and strengthening pro bono legal practice in the region.
