The Nigerian Senate has approved a bill to increase the salaries, allowances, and fringe benefits for judicial officers by 300%. This decision follows the adoption of the Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, and Legal Matters report, presented by Senator Mohammed Monguno (Borno North).

The executive bill, titled “A Bill for an Act to Prescribe the Salaries, Allowances and Fringe Benefits of Judicial Office Holders in Nigeria and for Related Matters,” was transmitted by President Bola Tinubu. The bill aims to enhance the financial compensation of judicial officers and workers.

Under the new bill, the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) will receive a monthly package of ₦5,385,047.26. Justices of the Supreme Court will earn ₦4,213,192.54 per month, while the President of the Court of Appeal will get ₦4,478,415.78 monthly.

Justices of the Court of Appeal will receive ₦3,726,665.40 per month. Other high-ranking judicial officers, including the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, the President of the National Industrial Court, and the Chief Judge of the FCT High Court, will earn ₦3,527,022.61 monthly.

Senator Monguno noted that stakeholders at the public hearing were unanimous in their support for the bill. He emphasized that the legislation aligns with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the standing rules of the Senate.

“The proposed legislation is apt and timely as the increase in remuneration of judicial office holders is long overdue in light of the present economic realities and high inflation in the country,” Monguno stated. He further highlighted that the bill recognizes the unique administrative structure and operation of the judiciary.

The bill aims to ensure judicial independence and integrity through adequate remuneration. “Fair compensation for judicial officers is crucial for maintaining public trust in the judiciary’s impartiality and integrity,” Monguno said. He added that the new pay structure would help judicial officers focus on their professional development without financial concerns, thereby improving their professionalism and decision-making skills.

Monguno also noted that the bill’s passage would attract and retain highly qualified and experienced professionals with the necessary skills and integrity to serve on the bench. “The bill, if passed, will give financial security to retired judicial officers after years of dedication in the profession and allow them to remain comfortable during their retirement,” he said.

The salary increments are included in the 2024 Appropriation Act. This comprehensive pay raise aims to address long-standing issues related to judicial compensation and improve the overall efficiency and integrity of Nigeria’s justice system.

The Senate’s approval of this significant pay raise marks a crucial step in the justice sector reform initiative. By enhancing the financial compensation of judicial officers, Nigeria aims to strengthen the judiciary’s independence, attract top talent, and maintain public trust in its legal system.