Abuja, June 5, 2024 – In a landmark decision on Wednesday, the Senate approved a bill granting a 300 percent salary increase for judicial officers at both federal and state levels.
The Senate endorsed the report presented by the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, and Legal Matters, chaired by Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno (APC- Borno North). This follows the consideration and adoption of an executive bill transmitted by President Bola Tinubu, seeking improved salaries, allowances, and other fringe benefits for judicial officers and workers.
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,” will provide significant salary increases for top judicial positions if passed by the House of Representatives and signed by the President.
Under the new bill, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, will receive an annual salary of N64 million. The President of the Court of Appeal will be entitled to N62.4 million, while Justices of the Supreme Court will earn N61.4 million each. Additionally, heads of various courts, such as the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court and the Chief Judge of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, will earn an annual basic salary of N7.9 million.
Senator Monguno emphasized that stakeholders at the public hearing of the bill unanimously supported its passage. “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,” he said.
The bill is considered innovative as it not only increases the basic salary but also addresses the unique administrative and operational needs of the judiciary. “The bill, if passed, will ensure appropriate and commensurate remuneration that will guarantee judicial independence and integrity,” Senator Monguno added.
He highlighted that adequate remuneration allows judicial officers to focus on their professional development without financial worries, improving their professionalism and decision-making skills. Fair compensation for judicial officers is seen as crucial for maintaining public trust in the judiciary’s impartiality and integrity. “When judges are adequately compensated, it demonstrates society’s commitment to the important role they play in upholding justice,” he stated.
The salary increment has already been included in the 2024 Appropriation Act, ensuring its implementation once the bill is fully passed and signed.
For further details, stay tuned as this story develops.
