GORONYO CALLS FOR STRENGTHENED MILITARY JUSTICE SYSTEM THROUGH LEGAL SCHOLARSHIP

Says legal scholarship key to discipline, accountability, and national security

The Minister of State for Works, Rt. Hon. Bello Muhammad Goronyo has called for sustained investment in military justice and legal scholarship as a critical component of Nigeria’s national security architecture.

The Minister made the call while delivering remarks as Special Guest of Honour at the presentation of the book titled “Military Law in Nigeria: A Quick Reference Guide to Practice and Procedure,” held on Saturday, 18th April 2026, in Sokoto State.

Rt. Hon. Goronyo noted that, as Nigeria continues to confront evolving security challenges, the importance of a well-defined and effectively implemented military legal framework cannot be overstated.

He stressed that military law remains central to ensuring professionalism, discipline, and accountability within the Armed Forces. Describing the publication as both timely and strategic, the Minister said the book provides a practical and accessible guide for navigating military legal procedures, thereby enhancing institutional efficiency and adherence to the rule of law.

The event also featured strong endorsements from stakeholders across the legal, academic, and security sectors, who widely acknowledged the book as a significant contribution to legal scholarship.

According to them, the publication is expected to deepen understanding of military law, improve national security awareness, and serve as a practical reference for both military personnel and legal practitioners.

The book, authored by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Professor Ibrahim Abdullahi, was particularly noted for its credibility and anticipated impact, given the author’s standing in the legal profession.

Speakers emphasized the growing importance of military law in addressing contemporary security challenges, stressing the need for a stronger legal framework and better-informed practitioners within the defence and justice sectors.

In his remarks, the Governor of Sokoto State Ahmed Aliyu, represented by his Deputy, Alhaji Idris Muhammad Gobir, commended the Minister’s contributions to national development, describing them as impactful and relevant to both state and national progress.

The Chairman of the occasion, Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, also underscored the importance of the book’s subject matter, describing it as highly relevant to legal practice in Nigeria, particularly in relation to governance, security, and institutional accountability.

Earlier, the author, Professor Ibrahim Abdullahi, highlighted the distinguished public service record of the Honourable Minister, noting his contributions across the executive, legislative, and judicial arms of government.

Rt. Hon. Goronyo, who was honoured through the publication, described the recognition as both humbling and motivating, reaffirming his commitment to nation-building and public service.

He emphasized that strong institutions remain the backbone of any stable society, and that the promotion of knowledge, research, and legal discipline is essential for sustainable development.

The Minister further urged members of the Armed Forces, legal practitioners, academics, and policymakers to leverage the insights provided in the book to strengthen the administration of military justice and reinforce institutional integrity.

He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for prioritizing security and the rule of law under the Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that such efforts are fundamental to Nigeria’s progress.

Rt. Hon. Goronyo expressed appreciation to the Sokoto State Government and the organizers of the event for providing a platform that promotes intellectual engagement and national development.

He further extended gratitude to Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko for his continued dedication to public service, and commended Governor Ahmed Aliyu for his commitment to the growth and development of Sokoto State.

The event drew participation from key stakeholders across the legal, academic, and security sectors.

Among the dignitaries present were representatives of the Governor of Kebbi State, Dr. Nasir Idris; the representative of the Governor of Zamfara State, 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; 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, alongside other distinguished personalities.

Overall, stakeholders agreed that the publication will enhance professional practice, strengthen legal education, and make a lasting contribution to the development of military law in Nigeria.