NJI mourns late Chief Justice Uwais

…his fond memories extend beyond his judicial tenure – Gilber Toh

By Vivian Okejeme, Abuja

The Administrator, Management and Staff of the National Judicial Institute(NJI), has expresses their condolences to Nigerian Judiciary and families of former Chief Justice of Nigeria and Chairman, Board of Governors of National Judicial Institute, Hon. Justice Mohammed Lawal Uwais.

Uwais, who passed on in the early hours of Friday, June 6, 2025, was the 9th Chief Justice of Nigeria from 1995 until his retirement in 2006.

During his tenure as CJN, he served as the Chairman, Board of Governors of the Institute, leaving behind a formidable legacy of Judicial excellence and Integrity.

As the Chairman, BOG, he championed and directed Judicial training reforms aimed at improving the Administration of Justice and Judicial education in Nigeria. He was instrumental to the establishment of the National Judicial Council, which plays critical role in Judicial policies, appointments, discipline and maintaining Judicial Independence.

Also elugizing the Uwais is the Director of Studies of the institute, Gilbert Tor. He said that the passing of the former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Mohammed Lawal Uwais, leaves judiciary with fond memories that extends beyond his judicial tenure.

Toh, has in a statement, signed by Head, Information & Public Relations, Kolade Umoru said the judicial icon, an erudite and astute Judge of no mean repute immeasurable commitment to justice, integrity and respect for the rule of law has inspired and will continue to inspire generations upon generations of citizens, legal practitioners, Judges and indeed those who appreciate these values.

“Working under your Lordship’s supervision was a defining experience that shaped my career. Your mentorship and guidance was instrumental to my growth, as these helped me to reach my full potential.

“I am forever grateful and I cherish the opportunity, inspiration, experience and knowledge gained under your tutelage.

“All that I and others who know you can do, or say at this time, is that, may the Angels of God accompany your soul and present you before God, and may perpetual light shine upon you in Jesus Christ’s name. Amen.

“The Institute honoured his tireless dedication and contributions to the rule of law and Improvement of the Institute. There is no doubt that Hon. Justice M. L Uwais’s professional achievements and unwavering commitment to Justice and electoral reforms had a lasting impact on Nigeria’s legal and political landscape. He will be sorely missed by many.