Nigerian President Urges Judges to Embrace Blockchain Knowledge to Tackle Modern Crimes

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerian judges to embrace digital education, urging them to familiarise themselves with blockchain technology, cryptocurrencies, and other emerging financial systems to effectively combat evolving forms of crime. Speaking at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and National Judicial Institute (NJI) Workshop for Justices and Judges in Abuja, the President—represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima—emphasised that the fight against corruption now demands technological literacy.

Tinubu noted that the landscape of financial crime has drastically changed, with new forms of fraud emerging through digital channels. He argued that justice cannot be served in cases involving cryptocurrency scams if judges are not equipped with the technical understanding of how such systems function. “How does one do justice in a cryptocurrency fraud case except one is grounded in such matters?” he asked, pointing to the need for continuous education within the judiciary.

In a statement issued by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the Vice President on Media and Communications, Tinubu stressed that learning and relearning are no longer optional in the digital age. He said that for the judiciary to remain credible and relevant, its members must stay updated on modern technologies shaping the economy and governance. The President also urged judges to maintain integrity and independence, reminding them that any compromise within the justice system undermines national moral strength.

Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of judicial officers and safeguarding the independence of the judiciary. He acknowledged widespread public frustration over the slow pace of corruption-related trials compared to the faster handling of smaller cybercrime cases. According to him, adopting technology and streamlining judicial processes are crucial to restoring citizens’ confidence in the rule of law.

He warned that corruption affects everyone equally, including those on the Bench, stating that no one is shielded from its consequences. “There are no special roads, hospitals, or communities for judges,” he said. “A Nigeria free of corruption is possible if we all commit to doing what is right.”

Through his remarks, Tinubu positioned digital literacy as a central pillar in Nigeria’s broader anti-corruption strategy, calling on the judiciary to evolve alongside the global technological revolution to ensure fair and effective justice.