Nigerian Senate Passes Bills to Expand Federal Judiciary

The Senate of Nigeria passed two bills for second reading on June 10, 2026, designed to expand the federal judiciary and accelerate the administration of justice. The legislation proposes increasing the number of Federal High Court judges from 70 to 90 and the number of Court of Appeal justices from 70 to 110.

Sponsored by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, the bills address mounting case backlogs resulting from population growth, electoral disputes, and complex commercial litigation. To modernize operations, the bills introduce a legal framework for virtual court proceedings and the establishment of an Alternative Dispute Resolution Centre within the Court of Appeal.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio noted that judicial delays have historically deterred investors and shippers from the country. He stated that these reforms would improve Nigeria's standing as an investment destination by ensuring a more prompt dispensation of justice.

Both bills have been referred to the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters for detailed scrutiny. The committee has a four-week mandate to report back to the Senate with further recommendations.