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The 32nd Annual Judiciary Sports Competition organised by the National Sports Association for Judiciary (NASAJ) has opened in Kaduna, bringing together judicial officers and staff to promote physical fitness, unity and professional relationships.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Kaduna state governor, Senator Uba Sani, said the well-being of judicial officers and staff was essential to sustaining an effective justice system.
Represented by the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Sir James Kanyip, the governor said the competition provided an opportunity for participants to improve their physical fitness, strengthen professional relationships and engage in healthy recreation outside their official duties.
He said sports also aligned with the state government’s development agenda through the promotion of health, talent development, opportunities for young people and support for local enterprise.
The governor added that the strength of the judiciary depended not only on laws, procedures and facilities but also on the competence, integrity and well-being of the personnel responsible for administering justice.
Also speaking, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, said the competition offered judicial officers and staff an opportunity to interact outside the courtroom, renew friendships and strengthen professional bonds.
Represented by the Chief Judge of Kaduna state, Justice Muhammad Tukur Aliyu, the CJN said the physical and mental well-being of judicial officers, administrative personnel, technical staff and other support workers deserved attention because of their respective roles in the administration of justice.
She said sports promoted fitness, relieved stress and encouraged teamwork, discipline, perseverance and respect for rules.
The CJN commended NASAJ for sustaining the annual competition and thanked the Kaduna State Government for hosting the event.
Earlier, NASAJ President, Comrade Noah Sunday, said the competition promoted discipline, integrity, fairness, excellence, mutual respect and unity among members of the judiciary.
He expressed appreciation to the CJN, Governor Uba Sani and the Chief Judge of Kaduna State for supporting the event.
Sunday urged participants to compete with determination, respect the rules and show consideration for their opponents, noting that the competition also provided an opportunity to build camaraderie across the judiciary.
At the opening ceremony, the National Judicial Council (NJC) came first in the march-past, while the Court of Appeal placed second and the Body of Benchers came third.
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