The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Olukayode Ariwoola has emphasized the need for increased salaries, allowances, and official benefits for judges in order to enhance Nigeria’s judiciary system and alleviate the suffering of its citizens.

Speaking at a public hearing organized by the Senate Committee on Judiciary Human Rights and Legal Matters, the Chief Justice stated that well-compensated judges not only perform their duties diligently but also prioritize the interests of the citizens who depend on a fair and efficient judiciary.

Mr. Ariwoola drew a parallel between the salaries of Nigerian judges and a critically ill patient in an intensive care unit (ICU) of a hospital. He explained that just as a patient needs stabilization before undergoing therapy, judges require appropriate compensation to ensure their financial stability and enable them to focus on their duties.

“The bill being considered will provide the necessary stability for judges across Nigeria. It will enable them to move from the ICU to the general ward, gaining strength and eventually receiving the additional support they need. Let us prioritize the well-being of our judiciary by swiftly passing this bill,” the CJN urged.

The CJN’s message was conveyed by Hon Justice Kashim Zannah, the Chief Judge of Borno State.

Zannah highlighted that the salaries of judicial officers have not been reviewed since 2007, despite the significant depreciation in purchasing power over the past 17 years. He pointed out that the exchange rate at the time the salaries were fixed in 2007 was 130.25 US dollars to one Nigerian Naira, whereas today, it is approximately 1500 Naira to one US dollar. This massive depreciation has resulted in a drastic reduction in the value of judges’ salaries.

“For example, a salary of $5,080 in 2007 has now dwindled to $441. In today’s terms, this amount is equivalent to 7,000,600 Naira. It is clear that the current remuneration does not reflect the economic realities faced by judges,” Zannah emphasized.

He further highlighted that the bill currently under review proposes a salary of 3 million Naira, whereas the appropriate compensation should be 7.6 million Naira.

However, Zannah commended the efforts of the 10th National Assembly and the President in recognizing the need for improved compensation for judicial officers. He expressed gratitude for the inclusion of the proposed increase in the current appropriation law, which aligns with the salary package recommended by the house and the Senate.

“While the bill on the floor is an improvement, it is still less than half the value of the salaries fixed in 2007. We urge the National Assembly to pass the bill with the proposed replacement, which reflects the appropriation law and the President’s instructions. Additionally, we request continued support from the National Assembly in addressing other outstanding issues,” Zannah stated.

The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), also affirmed the commitment of the President to improving the welfare and standards of the judiciary. He disclosed that the President had approved a 300% increment in the remuneration of judicial officers, which prompted the review of the earlier recommendation by the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC).

Fagbemi praised the Judicial Office Holders (Salaries and Allowances, etc) BILL 2024 for its innovative approach in considering the specific needs of the judiciary and ensuring judicial independence and integrity.

Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, expressed support for the bill and underscored the government’s initiative to enhance the judiciary’s well-being. He emphasized the importance of swift passage of the bill for the benefit of both the judiciary and the Nigerian population.

Tahir Monguno, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Judiciary, highlighted the committee’s responsibility to provide the necessary resources and support for an effective and efficient judiciary. He stressed that by increasing the salaries and allowances of judicial officers, the committee aims to strengthen the independence and integrity of the judiciary, boost public confidence, and contribute to the long-term stability and prosperity of the nation.

Monguno emphasised that the vital role played by the Nigerian Judiciary in upholding the rule of law, protecting citizens’ rights and freedom, and ensuring the proper administration of justice. He acknowledged the pressing need to improve the remuneration and welfare package for judicial officers to align with the rising cost of living and the increasing complexity of their responsibilities.