Justice of the Apex Court Advocates Integration of Law and Religion in Legal Education
Justice Helen Moronkeji Ogunwumiju, CFR, JSC, has called for the urgent integration of Law and Religion Studies into Nigerian legal education to foster national unity, justice, and development.
Delivering the keynote address at the Nigerian Law and Religion Studies Curriculum Development Colloquium in Abuja, the Supreme Court Justice emphasised that understanding religious diversity is critical for future legal practitioners in a pluralistic society like Nigeria.
Speaking on the theme, “The Role of Law and Religion in National Development: Building Bridges, Shaping Futures,” His Lordship proposed a six-pillar curriculum model covering constitutional law, family law, comparative legal systems, ethics, dispute resolution, and public policy.
Justice Ogunwumiju advised against sidelining religion in legal discourse, citing that the law plays a preventive and remedial role in a nation often marked by religious tensions. According to the Justice of the apex Court: “A law and religion studies curriculum teaching religious literacy would equip future jurists, scholars and policy makers to navigate religious plurality with mutual respect for each religion and enhance unity in the country.”
She referenced landmark cases to illustrate the judiciary’s evolving role in balancing religious freedom with public interest. “This isn’t just about curriculum reform,” His Lordship stated. “It’s about equipping future lawyers to mediate faith-based conflicts and uphold justice in a diverse nation.”
His Lordship also praised institutions like the University of Lagos for pioneering Law and Religion courses, and acknowledged global partners such as the International Center for Law and Religion Studies (ICLRS) and local collaborators for advancing the initiative.
