Strengthening justice systems: RoLAC is expanding to Plateau State in Nigeria

This visit aimed to introduce the programme, forge partnerships with key boundary partners, and lay the groundwork for an impactful intervention in this state of Nigeria.

The visit commenced with a meeting at the office of the Attorney General of Plateau State, Barr Philemon Dafi, who warmly welcomed the International IDEA team. Expressing solidarity with the RoLAC programme and assuring the team of all required support forms to ensure maximum impact. Barr Dafi emphasised the significance of collaboration in achieving meaningful outcomes for the people of Plateau State.

"The reason we went to look for you is because we believe that we can work together to achieve a lot for the people of this state. We want you and your team to leave this place with the mindset that you are working with one of the best set of partners. We want to assure you that you will get value for your investment, and we will bring value for our people," said Barr Philemon Dafi.

Subsequently, the team was honoured to meet with the Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency Barr Caleb Muftwang, alongside cabinet members and heads of various agencies and parastatals. The Governor expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration and assured full support for the forthcoming initiatives.

"We appreciate that you and your organisation are coming to Plateau State to strengthen our Justice Systems. We will be tapping into your vast experience to improve justice for the people of Plateau. For everything that you have requested, we will do our best to provide them," explained H.E. Governor Caleb Muftwang.

Concluding the mission, a combined stakeholder meeting was convened at CRISPAN Hotel, bringing together key representatives including the Chief Judge of Plateau State, Justice David Gwong Mann, The Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, representatives of partner ministries including, Women Affairs, Health, agencies, as well as delegates from Persons with Disabilities, and civil society organisations. This engagement served as a platform to introduce partners to the RoLAC programme, highlighting its objectives, impact, and avenues for collaboration.

Through these engagements, International IDEA and partners reaffirmed their commitment to fostering sustainable partnerships and effecting positive change in Plateau State's justice sector. Plateau State is joining Adamawa, Anambra, Edo, Kano, and Lagos as the focal states of the RoLAC II Programme.