Tinubu Sends Judicial Reform Bill to Senate to Increase Number of Judges

Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu submitted a judicial reform bill to the National Assembly on January 29 2026, seeking to increase the number of judges across federal courts in a move aimed at addressing prolonged case backlogs and improving access to justice.

According to officials familiar with the proposal, the bill recommends expanding the bench of the Federal High Court Court of Appeal and other superior courts to reflect Nigeria’s growing population and rising volume of litigation. The presidency said the current number of judges is no longer sufficient to handle caseload demands efficiently.

The reform bill also emphasizes faster adjudication of commercial criminal and constitutional matters which the government says is critical for investor confidence and rule of law. Legal analysts noted that delays in court proceedings have remained a persistent challenge in Nigeria’s justice system for years.

Senate leadership confirmed receipt of the bill and said it would be referred to the appropriate committees for review and public hearings. Lawmakers are expected to consult the judiciary Nigerian Bar Association and civil society groups before deliberations move forward.

The proposed reforms align with Tinubu’s broader governance agenda focused on institutional strengthening economic reform and judicial efficiency. If passed the bill would mark one of the most significant court expansion efforts in recent Nigerian history.