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Senior judicial leaders from across the world will gather in Nigeria’s capital this week for the inaugural International Bar Association (IBA) Judges’ Forum Conference, as courts confront mounting pressures from rapid technological change, growing attacks on judicial independence, and heightened public scrutiny.

The landmark event, titled In Defence of Justice, will take place at the Transcorp Hilton Abuja from 9–10 July 2026, bringing together chief justices, appellate judges, heads of court, senior lawyers, academics, and public officials from more than 20 countries across Africa, Asia, Europe, Oceania, and the Americas.

Delegates will examine pressing issues including judicial independence, the responsible use of artificial intelligence, judicial education, modern judging strategies, appointments, and the future of justice. Visits to Nigeria’s Court of Appeal and Supreme Court are also scheduled.

IBA President Claudio Visco emphasised the importance of the gathering: “Across every jurisdiction, an independent, effective and trusted judiciary is fundamental to the rule of law and to democratic society. Bringing judicial leaders together to exchange experiences and develop practical solutions has never been more important.”

Nigeria’s Chief Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun echoed this sentiment, stressing that public confidence in justice must be earned through transparency, accountability, and fidelity to the law. “This Conference offers an important opportunity for judicial leaders to exchange knowledge and reflect on the evolving challenges confronting courts in an increasingly complex world,” she said.

The breadth of participation reflects growing recognition that challenges such as cyber threats, disinformation, and erosion of judicial independence transcend national borders. Judicial leaders will use the forum to share practical experiences, explore innovative approaches, and strengthen international cooperation.

Justice Mark Livesey, President of the Court of Appeal of the Supreme Court of South Australia and Chair of the IBA Judges’ Forum, noted: “Artificial intelligence, judicial independence and public trust are among the defining challenges facing courts today. This conference will bring together judicial leaders to discuss how the judiciary can respond to a rapidly changing world.”

Justice Ngozika Okaisabor of Nigeria’s Court of Appeal added that, by bringing together participants from more than 20 countries, this inaugural conference will provide an important opportunity to exchange perspectives on judicial education, modern judging, and the future of justice across jurisdictions.

Independent courts underpin democratic governance, economic confidence, and the protection of fundamental rights. As technology transforms society and litigation grows more complex, maintaining trust in judicial institutions has become a matter of global public interest.

By hosting the inaugural IBA Judges’ Forum, Nigeria positions itself at the heart of international judicial dialogue, fostering collaboration across legal traditions and strengthening institutions that safeguard justice and constitutional governance.