PPDC Launches Court Management Technology To Revolutionize Justice Delivery In Nigeria
The Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC) has unveiled its Court Administration and Case Management (CACM) technology, a cutting-edge solution designed to digitize and streamline court operations, enhancing efficiency and reducing delays in Nigeria’s judiciary.
The initiative, supported by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) and developed by PPDC’s subsidiary, Devon Tech, was showcased on November 19 during an Access to Justice Parley in Abuja. The CACM technology has already been deployed in six states, including Adamawa, Kaduna, Plateau, and Nasarawa, with a goal to digitize at least 50% of Nigerian courts within five years.
The CACM platform integrates features such as real-time speech-to-text transcription, digital case scheduling, and secure cloud storage to simplify court processes. During the parley, a live demonstration at the Apo High Court highlighted its capabilities, with court proceedings transcribed in real-time and instantly made available to judges and staff.
“This technology addresses inefficiencies in our judiciary, but its success hinges on collaboration and counterpart funding at the state level,” said PPDC CEO Lucy James Abagi, emphasizing the importance of sustained partnerships during the demonstration.
The CACM initiative is seen as a game-changer for the judiciary. Judges and court staff in the participating states are undergoing training, and future plans include enabling virtual court sessions to facilitate remote participation and reduce logistical challenges.
According to PPDC Board Chair Chibuzor Ekwekwuo, the initiative could resolve at least half of the judiciary’s procedural challenges, paving the way to address other systemic issues. Plateau State Chief Judge, Justice David Mann, lauded the innovation as a significant step forward, describing it as a “positive development for the judiciary.”
While the CACM technology shows promise, challenges remain, including transcription errors with Nigerian names and phrases. PPDC is working on improving the software and plans to incorporate local language support to enhance its functionality.
Additionally, PPDC provides Starlink internet services to participating courts to ensure uninterrupted deployment. “We will remain available to provide technical support even after the system is fully functional,” said Ikechukwu Aguwu, a member of PPDC’s technical team.
Alongside the CACM launch, PPDC presented a justice assessment report covering 12 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The report identified systemic gaps in legal frameworks and operational practices, with recommendations for reforms to enhance access to justice in Nigeria.
The CACM project is a critical step toward a transparent, efficient, and accessible judicial system, offering hope for lasting improvements in justice delivery across the country.
