Small Claims Courts Get Digital Upgrade as Adamawa Targets Improved Business Environment

The Adamawa State Government has approved the digitization of seven Small Claims Courts as part of a broader judicial reform initiative aimed at improving access to justice, accelerating dispute resolution, and creating a more business friendly environment in the state.

The approval was reached during the 10th Executive Council meeting of 2026, chaired by Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri at the Government House in Yola.

The reform will introduce digital systems, including electronic filing of cases, virtual hearings, and digital case management, to enhance the efficiency of court operations and reduce delays associated with traditional legal processes.

The government said the initiative is expected to make it easier for individuals and businesses to resolve commercial disputes while strengthening confidence in the state’s justice system.

Small Claims Courts are specialised judicial platforms established to handle commercial disputes involving relatively smaller financial claims. According to government officials, the courts have so far handled 218 cases, with 163 successfully resolved, 16 struck out, and 39 cases still pending.

As part of efforts to expand the effectiveness of the courts, the financial limit for claims has been increased from ₦5 million to ₦20 million, allowing the courts to handle a wider range of commercial matters.

The digitisation programme will also enable complainants to file cases electronically, participate in virtual proceedings, and receive judgments more efficiently, reducing barriers to accessing justice.

Beyond judicial reforms, the council approved other measures focused on economic empowerment and infrastructure development. These include the procurement of startup support packages for 1,433 graduates under the Agile Alternative Learning Program to assist their transition into self employment after completing vocational skills training.

The council also approved the construction of an 18 kilometre Sha Bugu road in the Madagali area to improve rural connectivity, facilitate the movement of goods and services, and support economic activities within surrounding communities.

The series of approvals highlight the Adamawa State Government’s efforts to modernise public institutions, strengthen economic opportunities, and invest in infrastructure that supports sustainable growth.