#NBA2020AGC: Seun Abimbola on the readiness for the legal system to embrace digital technology

Despite its challenges, Nigeria's legal system is clearly willing to embrace digital technology. That's according to Seun Abimbola, Partner at Prime Solutions and Chairman Legal section of the Nigerian Bar Association. CNBC Africa's Christy Cole caught up with him on the side-lines of the 60th Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association.

Fri, 28 Aug 2020 11:56:31 GMT

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AI Generated Summary

The success of holding the AGC 2020 virtually amid the COVID-19 pandemic reflects the readiness of Nigeria's legal system to embrace digital technology.
The shift towards virtual court systems, online dispute resolution, and mediation highlights the adaptability of the legal profession and justice system.
The need for training judicial officers in technology skills is essential to facilitate the transition to a virtual court system and improve efficiency.

Nigeria's legal system is on the brink of a digital revolution, with key players like Seun Abimbola, Partner at Prime Solutions and Chairman Legal section of the Nigerian Bar Association, leading the charge. In an exclusive interview with CNBC Africa's Christy Cole at the 60th Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association, Abimbola discussed the readiness of the legal system to embrace digital technology and the challenges and opportunities that come with it. He highlighted the success of holding the AGC 2020 virtually amid the COVID-19 pandemic, with a record 25,000 registered participants, double the usual attendance. Abimbola pointed out the shift towards virtual court systems, online dispute resolution, and mediation, highlighting the willingness of the legal profession and justice system to adapt to the changing landscape. Despite challenges such as infrastructure and connectivity issues, Abimbola sees these obstacles as motivation to innovate and improve the system. He emphasized the need for training judicial officers in technology skills to facilitate the transition to a virtual court system, acknowledging the challenges that may arise, especially for older professionals unfamiliar with technology. The discussion delved into the historic difficulty of transitioning from manual to digital operations within the Nigerian judicial system and the impact of COVID-19 as a catalyst for change. Abimbola expressed optimism about the future of digital technology in Nigeria's legal system, citing the willingness and readiness of stakeholders to embrace innovation. As the legal profession continues to navigate the complexities of digital transformation, the conversation around the role of technology in speeding up judicial processes and improving access to justice becomes increasingly important. Abimbola's insights shed light on the progress made and the challenges that lie ahead in reshaping the legal landscape in Nigeria.