Nigeria is taking a bold step toward transforming its justice sector as it announces the finalists for the JusticeTechNG 2025 Hackathon, a groundbreaking national competition and accelerator program dedicated to justice innovation. The event, scheduled for June 3–5, 2025, in Lagos, is set to bring together a diverse array of developers, lawyers, technologists, civic leaders, and entrepreneurs, all united by a mission to tackle some of the country’s most persistent justice challenges.
A Nationwide Call for Solutions
Launched with an open call across the nation, JusticeTechNG 2025 attracted 82 submissions from teams eager to address issues such as delayed access to justice, court congestion, prisoner rehabilitation, digital legal education, and public rights awareness. After a rigorous multi-stage selection process, a panel of 14 experts from law, technology, development, and the private sector narrowed the field to 20 standout teams. Each submission was independently reviewed by at least two assessors, ensuring a fair and comprehensive evaluation.
Innovative Ideas for Real-World Impact
The selected finalists are working on a wide range of solutions, including:
- Digital platforms to expand legal access in underserved communities
- Case-tracking systems to streamline court operations
- Reintegration tools for ex-inmates
- Real-time civic justice reporting technologies
These projects reflect the Hackathon’s core vision: to build a pipeline of locally grown, policy-aligned justice innovations that are ready for real-world adoption.
High-Level Support and Strategic Oversight
JusticeTechNG is convened by Fernandez Marcus-Obiene, Special Assistant to the President on Justice Sector Reform and ICT/Digital and Innovative Technology, with support from a multidisciplinary planning committee led by legal technologist Abiola Jimoh. The initiative also benefits from the guidance of a prestigious Advisory Board featuring top figures from the judiciary, legal practice, business, and technology sectors, including Hon. Justice Kashim Zannah OFR, Tunde Fagbohunlu SAN, Dr. Babatunde Ajibade SAN, and several others.
Accelerator and Rewards for Top Teams
At the conclusion of the Hackathon, the top 10 teams will enter a month-long virtual Accelerator Program, culminating in a Demo Day where they will pitch their solutions to a panel of government officials, judges, development agencies, and investors. The three best teams will share N22 million in cash and services, alongside structured mentorship and ongoing support to help bring their innovations to market.
A Model for Collaborative Reform
JusticeTechNG is being hailed as a new model for public-private-civic collaboration in Nigeria. By blending policy development with entrepreneurship and grassroots problem-solving, the initiative is placing technology at the heart of justice sector reform.
As the June event approaches, the 20 finalist teams are not just competitors—they are pioneers shaping the future of justice in Nigeria and potentially across Africa. Their work offers hope that with the right support and vision, technology can bridge the gap between citizens and the justice system, making justice more accessible, efficient, and fair for all.
