Judiciary
THE Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Hon. Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, has launched the Nigerian Case Management System (NCMS) and electronic filing at the Supreme Court, describing the initiative as a major step toward a faster, more transparent and technology-driven justice system.
Speaking at the formal launch held at the Supreme Court Complex in Abuja, the CJN said the judiciary could no longer remain on the sidelines of the global shift toward digital technology in judicial administration.
She described the introduction of the NCMS and the Supreme Court (Mandatory Upload of Electronic Copies of Processes, Record of Appeal, and Other Matters) Practice Directions, 2026, as a significant milestone in the modernisation of the apex court.
According to her, the NCMS is designed to manage the entire lifecycle of cases before the Supreme Court by replacing paper-based procedures with a secure digital platform.
She said the system would provide a comprehensive audit trail for court records, reducing the risks of alteration, loss or misuse while improving efficiency in case management.
Kekere-Ekun explained that implementation would be in phases, with the first phase taking immediate effect for appeals scheduled for hearing between September and December 2026.
She directed counsel handling such matters to upload all relevant processes and records within the timelines prescribed in the Practice Directions.
The CJN said subsequent quarterly implementation would ensure all pending appeals were eventually captured on the platform.
She added that the second phase would introduce full electronic filing, allowing litigants and legal practitioners to file court processes digitally through a transparent and technology-enabled system.
The CJN, however, warned legal practitioners against abusing the platform by uploading forged or unauthorised court documents.
She stressed that technology could only be effective when those entrusted with its use acted responsibly and ethically.
“The Court will view any attempt to upload forged, altered, unauthorised or otherwise irregular processes with the utmost seriousness,” she said.
She added that any violation would attract appropriate legal, regulatory and disciplinary sanctions.
Kekere-Ekun acknowledged that introducing a nationwide digital platform could present initial challenges but assured stakeholders that feedback from implementation would be used to strengthen and improve the system.
She also disclosed that the Supreme Court was conducting a comprehensive review and verification of pending appeals and court records to enhance public confidence in the administration of justice.
The CJN commended the Judicial Information Technology Policy Committee, led by Justice Kashim Zannah, the Supreme Court Rules and Litigation Committees, and the Chief Registrar, Mr Kabir Akanbi, for their roles in developing and implementing the initiative.
She expressed confidence that the NCMS would reduce administrative bottlenecks, improve case management and strengthen the integrity and efficiency of judicial administration.
According to her, the initiative represents more than the deployment of a new technological platform.
“It signifies a defining milestone in the continuing evolution of the Supreme Court of Nigeria and provides a model for adoption by other courts across the country,” she said.
The Supreme Court reaffirmed its commitment to building a modern, innovative and technologically resilient justice system anchored on the principles of justice, fairness and the rule of law.
F.O
Tags: Case Management System CJN E-filing Supreme Court