PF Nigeria launches restorative justice project in Plateau, Lagos, others
By CHRISTIANA LOT, Jos –
In a significant development for Nigeria’s justice system, Prison Fellowship Nigeria (PF Nigeria) has unveiled its Restorative Justice, Rehabilitation, and Reintegration Project, which will span eight states: Plateau, Adamawa, Lagos, Edo, Anambra, Abia, Kano, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Speaking at a press briefing held at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Secretariat in Jos, Dr. Jacob Tsado, the Executive Director of PF Nigeria, underscored the transformative potential of the initiative.
He stated that the project aims to introduce restorative justice as a sustainable alternative to the punitive measures that currently dominate Nigeria’s justice system.
“Restorative justice is more than just a concept; it is a powerful tool for rebuilding broken relationships, fostering accountability, and promoting healing for offenders, victims, and communities. This project will equip stakeholders with the knowledge and tools needed to address conflicts in ways that bring restoration rather than further harm,” Dr. Tsado stated.
Funded by the European Union under the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC Phase II) Programme, the initiative will involve sensitization workshops, capacity-building sessions, the establishment of Restorative Justice Centers, and rehabilitation and reintegration programs for ex-offenders.
Furthermore, Dr. Tsado announced that the first workshop, themed Fostering Justice, Reconciliation, and Community Healing, is scheduled to take place in Jos on December 3, 2024.
In addition, he revealed that similar workshops will be replicated in the other seven states, targeting legal practitioners, law enforcement officers, and community leaders.
He highlighted the broader implications of the initiative, stating that it would enhance access to justice for vulnerable groups, help reduce court congestion, and alleviate overcrowding in prisons.
Dr. Tsado also referenced PF Nigeria’s previous success in Lagos, where a Restorative Justice Center was established at the Samuel Ilori Court House in partnership with the Lagos State Government.
“Our hope is to replicate these successes nationwide, ensuring that justice not only serves as a deterrent but also heals wounds and restores dignity to all parties involved in the justice process,” he added.
With its multi-state scope, the project is poised to reshape Nigeria’s justice system, creating a foundation for transparency, accountability, and community harmony.