
Juritrust Centre for Socio-Legal Research and Documentation
Juritrust Centre for Socio-legal Research and Documentation is a research-driven and advocacy-based non-governmental organisation, headquartered in Abuja, Nigeria, and established in 2013. Our foundational mandate is to champion comprehensive societal reforms and foster sustainable development, aligning closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We achieve this by meticulously researching laws and policies and disseminating informed public discourse. Our vision is to cultivate a world characterised by equal opportunities and sustainable development, where the rule of law is unequivocally supreme, thereby contributing directly to SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) and other interconnected goals such as those related to financial and social inclusion, consumer protection, data privacy, and environmental stewardship.
Through a multi-faceted approach, Juritrust Centre actively works towards its mandate and vision. We regularly organise impactful mentorship sessions, seminars, and workshops, fostering knowledge transfer and capacity building. Furthermore, we disseminate relevant publications and create both physical and virtual platforms for academics, professionals, students, and the general public to share and obtain crucial information. Our practical impact is evident in the enhanced legal frameworks we have helped to shape, which have led to improved access to justice and strengthened accountability mechanisms. We have proudly collaborated with and continue to partner with esteemed entities, including the judiciary across several African countries, various law enforcement agencies, international organisations such as the MacArthur Foundation and FIDA, and national bodies like the Nigerian Bar Association and the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, all in pursuit of a more just and equitable society.
Key Focus Areas
Thematic Priorities

Administration of Criminal Justice
Juritrust Centre plays host to the Administration of Criminal Justice Academy, which serves as a one-stop world-class repository of a vast collection of criminal justice materials. The Centre actively leads advocacy and policy reforms on criminal justice through meticulously organised seminars, workshops, and conferences, notably the biennial Regional Conference on Administration of Criminal Justice, which convenes leading figures in criminal justice administration from across Africa to deliberate on and chart the future trajectory of criminal justice in the region. This dedicated focus directly resonates with Sustainable Development Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), by fostering the rule of law, ensuring equal access to justice, and building effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels. The impact of these efforts includes the strengthening of legal frameworks, the enhancement of capacity among justice sector professionals, and a measurable increase in public trust in the justice system, ultimately leading to more equitable and efficient justice outcomes. In this crucial work, Juritrust Centre collaborates with key institutions such as the Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committee.

Accountability and Governance
In the realm of Accountability and Governance, Juritrust Centre leads impactful advocacy campaigns and drives crucial policy reforms aimed at fostering transparency and ethical conduct within public and private sectors. Furthermore, the Centre diligently conducts and disseminates insightful materials on critical aspects of governance, anti-corruption measures, anti-money laundering strategies, and related areas. This comprehensive approach aligns seamlessly with Sustainable Development Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), specifically targeting the substantial reduction of corruption and bribery in all their forms, and the development of effective, accountable, and transparent institutions. The profound impact of these initiatives is evident in the strengthened integrity of institutions, the significant reduction of illicit financial flows, and a marked increase in public participation and confidence in governance processes. Our work in this area is often undertaken in collaboration with various governmental bodies, civil society organisations, and international partners committed to good governance.

Financial and Social Inclusion
Financial and Social Inclusion constitutes a core focus area for Juritrust Centre, where it engages in robust advocacy, champions progressive policy reforms, and undertakes rigorous empirical research to identify and dismantle barriers to equitable access to financial services, economic opportunities, and social participation for all segments of society, with particular emphasis on vulnerable groups. This commitment directly supports Sustainable Development Goals 1 (No Poverty), 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and 10 (Reduced Inequalities), by striving to eradicate poverty, promote sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, and reduce inequality within and among countries. The tangible impact of these endeavours includes enhanced economic empowerment for marginalised populations, a discernible reduction in societal inequality, greater access to essential services, and a significant improvement in overall livelihoods. Our collaborative efforts in this domain extend to financial institutions, governmental agencies, and community-based organisations.

Data
Protection
Within the critical domain of Data Protection, Juritrust Centre spearheads advocacy initiatives, influences legislative reforms, and conducts in-depth empirical studies to comprehensively understand the evolving challenges of data privacy and to promote best practices for safeguarding personal information in the digital age. This work is fundamentally relevant to Sustainable Development Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), as it underpins the promotion of the rule of law and ensures fundamental freedoms in the digital sphere, while also supporting SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) by fostering trust and security in digital systems. The discernible impact of our contributions includes heightened public awareness regarding data rights, the establishment of stronger legal frameworks for data privacy, enhanced trust in digital services, and a significant reduction in cyber-related risks. We frequently collaborate with regulatory bodies, technology firms, and privacy advocacy groups to achieve these objectives.

Consumer
Protection
Juritrust Centre is deeply committed to Consumer Protection, driving impactful advocacy campaigns, advocating for comprehensive policy adjustments, and performing extensive empirical investigations to inform and strengthen the rights and interests of consumers. This crucial work is designed to shield consumers from unfair trade practices, ensure the safety of products, and combat deceptive advertising. Our efforts are intrinsically linked to Sustainable Development Goal 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), by promoting sustainable consumption and production patterns, and also contribute to SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by ensuring product safety and public health. The positive impact of these interventions is manifested in empowered consumers, the establishment of safer and more transparent markets, the promotion of fairer business practices, and a notable increase in overall consumer confidence. Our collaborations in this area often involve consumer associations, regulatory agencies, and industry stakeholders.

Climate Change and Environment
In the vital area of Climate Change and Environment, Juritrust Centre initiates impactful advocacy, champions progressive policy changes, and conducts critical empirical research to effectively address the multifaceted challenges of climate change and promote sustainable environmental practices. This dedication is directly aligned with several Sustainable Development Goals, including SDG 13 (Climate Action) to combat climate change and its impacts, SDG 14 (Life Below Water) to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine resources, and SDG 15 (Life on Land) to protect, restore, and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems. The far-reaching impact of our work includes heightened public and governmental awareness regarding climate risks, the development and enforcement of stronger climate and environmental regulations, a measurable reduction in carbon footprints and ecological degradation, and improved public health outcomes. We frequently collaborate with environmental agencies, academic institutions, and conservation organisations, as well as international climate bodies, to advance our shared goals.