The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has announced that the Supreme Court is currently carrying out a comprehensive review and verification of all pending appeals, including a detailed audit of related case records in its registry.
According to her, the exercise is aimed at strengthening public confidence in the court’s processes, detecting any possible irregularities, and ensuring that necessary corrective actions are taken in line with legal procedures.
She made the disclosure during the official transition of the Supreme Court to a fully digital system, which now requires the mandatory uploading of electronic copies of court documents and appeal records.
The apex court also unveiled its 2026 Practice Directions and formally launched the Nigerian Case Management System (NCMS), marking a major shift toward digital judicial administration.
Justice Kekere-Ekun described the development as a significant step in modernising the judiciary, designed to create a secure, efficient and technology-driven system capable of meeting current demands in justice delivery.
She explained that the digital framework will improve case management, reduce administrative delays, and enhance the speed, accessibility and reliability of appellate proceedings.
According to her, the initiative is part of a broader judicial reform agenda aimed at building a modern and technologically resilient justice system that remains transparent, efficient and aligned with global standards.
She stressed that the Supreme Court, as the highest court in the country, has a responsibility to set standards that will improve justice administration nationwide.
The Chief Justice also warned that any attempt to upload forged, altered or unauthorised documents into the system would be treated with utmost seriousness and attract legal and disciplinary consequences.
She emphasized that technology alone cannot guarantee success without integrity, professionalism and ethical conduct from all stakeholders, including lawyers and court officials.
The Nigerian Bar Association, through its President Mazi Afam Osigwe (SAN), pledged the support of legal practitioners in adopting the new digital platform, while judicial officials highlighted its potential to eliminate delays and inefficiencies in appeal processes.
The Supreme Court explained that the rollout of the system will be carried out in phases, beginning with mandatory electronic uploads for pending appeals scheduled for hearing between September and December 2026, followed by full electronic filing of new cases.
It added that the gradual implementation is intended to ensure a smooth transition while allowing continuous monitoring and adjustment of the system.
