Nigeria’s criminal justice system continues to face persistent challenges, including outdated legal frameworks that hinder effective justice delivery. In many states, the Penal and Criminal Code Laws remain misaligned with modern reforms such as the Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL) and gender-sensitive legislation. This disconnect creates inefficiencies, limits access to justice, and perpetuates systemic barriers for marginalized groups, particularly women.

The Rule of Law and Empowerment Initiative (PWAN), also known as Partners West Africa Nigeria, is committed to transforming the justice system by promoting transparency, accountability, and inclusive reforms. Building on years of work in justice sector advocacy, PWAN is leading a groundbreaking initiative to review and modernize criminal justice laws across 10 states in Nigeria.

With support from the MacArthur Foundation, this project aims to align state-level legal frameworks with the ACJL, strengthen justice delivery, and ensure that laws reflect current realities and human rights standards.

What We Did

Audit of Existing Penal and Criminal Code Laws

• We conducted a comprehensive review of outdated Penal and Criminal Code laws in 10 states to identify gaps and inconsistencies.
• We mapped provisions that conflict with the ACJL and other gender-sensitive legislation.

Stakeholder Engagement

• We collaborated with state-level justice actors, including ministries, judiciary, police, and civil society organizations.
• We convened forums to gather input from diverse stakeholders on proposed reforms.

Review and Amendment of Penal and Criminal Code Laws

• We developed modernized, gender-sensitive revisions to harmonize state laws with national standards.
• We integrated stakeholder feedback to ensure reforms address local realities.

Gender Mainstreaming

• We embedded gender considerations into every stage of the law review process.
• We ensured the revised laws protect the rights and interests of women and other vulnerable groups.

Dissemination of Revised Laws

– We produced and shared updated laws with justice sector institutions and the public.

– We supported training sessions to build capacity for implementation and compliance.

Our Impact

Through this initiative, PWAN is laying the foundation for a stronger, more equitable justice system by:

• Aligning outdated laws with modern reforms for efficient criminal justice delivery.
• Improving access to justice for marginalized populations, especially women.
• Enhancing accountability and transparency within justice institutions.
• Promoting gender equity through inclusive legal frameworks.

By combining systematic law review, broad stakeholder participation, and gender-sensitive approaches, this project creates sustainable reforms that resonate at both state and national levels. PWAN’s work paves the way for a justice system that is fair, responsive, and reflective of Nigeria’s evolving social and legal landscape.