04/05/2024
*Gombe State High Court Conducts One-Day Capacity Building Training for Magistrates and Court Officials*
By Shamsuddeen Aminu
Head of ICT/Chief ICT Officer to the Hon. Chief Judge
Gombe State High Court of Justice
In a bid to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the judicial process, the Gombe State High Court recently organized and successfully conducted a one-day capacity building training for magistrates and court officials. The training focused on pre-trial procedures, sentencing guidelines, and the appellate process.
The opening session of the training witnessed the distinguished presence of key judicial figures including the Chief Judge of Gombe State, the Honorable Grand Khadi of the Gombe State Shari’a Court of Appeal, the Honorable Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice for Gombe State, the Honorable Commissioner of Finance for Gombe State, as well as Federal High Court judges and State High Court judges. Their collective presence underscored the importance attached to this initiative.
During their respective remarks, each dignitary emphasized the significance of such training in enhancing the overall administration of justice within the state. The Attorney General, in particular, highlighted the crucial role of lawyers from the Ministry of Justice in participating in the training, recognizing its direct relevance to their professional responsibilities. Similarly, the Grand Khadi advocated for the inclusion of staff from the Shari’a Court of Appeal, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive understanding of pre-trial procedures, sentencing considerations, and the appellate process.
The Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Gombe branch, alongside the Chairman of the Magistrates Association of Nigeria Gombe branch, expressed gratitude to the Honorable Chief Judge for spearheading this commendable initiative. They acknowledged the proactive approach taken by the judiciary in investing in the continuous professional development of its personnel, which ultimately contributes to a more robust and fair judicial system.
Such capacity-building endeavors not only equip legal practitioners with the necessary knowledge and skills but also serve to uphold the principles of justice and the rule of law.
As Gombe State continues its pursuit of excellence in the administration of justice, initiatives like these stand as a testament to the commitment of its judicial authorities to serve the citizens with integrity, competence, and fairness.
In his address at the opening session of the one-day capacity-building training, the Chief Judge of Gombe State, Hon. Justice Halima S. Mohammed extended a warm welcome to all participants, acknowledging their dedication to enhancing their skills and knowledge in the pursuit of justice. The Chief Judge commended the commitment of the judiciary to continuous professional development despite financial constraints, highlighting the proactive steps taken to organize in-house training sessions, emphasizing on the significance of such initiatives in fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement within the judiciary.
Furthermore, the Chief Judge underscored the importance of today's training, focusing on pre-trial procedures, sentencing guidelines, and appeals processes, as crucial elements of the legal framework. Encouraging participants to approach the training with an open mind and a commitment to learning, he expressed confidence in their ability to uphold the principles of justice and the rule of law in Gombe State.
The participants expressed their heartfelt appreciation for the opportunity to partake in the one-day capacity-building training, recognizing its significance in enhancing their professional skills and knowledge. They lauded the judiciary's commitment to continuous improvement despite challenges, acknowledging the proactive steps taken to organize such valuable training sessions. Gratitude was extended to the Chief Judge for his leadership and vision in prioritizing the development of magistrates and court officials.
Participants eagerly embraced the chance to deepen their understanding of pre-trial practice, sentencing procedures, and appeals processes, acknowledging the pivotal role these aspects play in ensuring fair and equitable justice delivery. At the end of the technical sessions, participants expressed optimism about the positive impact of the training on their roles within the judicial system, reaffirming their dedication to upholding the principles of justice and the rule of law in Gombe State.
Among the papers presented during the technical session are; “Understanding the Working Nature of Court Registry in Appellate Practice” presented by Hon. Justice Ibrahim Ahmad Kala of the Federal High Court, “Direct Criminal Complaint, Pre – trial Detention and Bail Protocols; Pertinent Considerations” by Hon. Justice Abdussalam Muhammad of the Gombe State High Court, and “Sentencing: Principles and Procedures” by Hon. Justice A. M Yakubu of the Gombe State High Court who was represented by Hon. Justice Daurabo I. Sikkam of the Gombe State High court also.
