Emmanuel OchayiThe House of Representatives has greenlit the judicial salary bill as the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) and other judicial officers across Nigeria are set to get a boost in their salaries, allowances, and benefits.
The bill, spearheaded by President Bola Tinubu, promises an increase in compensation, marking a notable shift in the remuneration landscape.
According to the approved bill, the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) is slated to receive a total monthly package of N5.39 million. This figure underscores the government’s recognition of the pivotal role played by the judiciary in upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice for all.
In response to the development, a member of the House of Representatives, speaking on condition of anonymity, shared their perspective on the significance of the bill: “This move is long overdue. Our judicial officers deserve adequate compensation for their dedication and service to the nation. By enhancing their salaries and allowances, we can attract and retain top talent within the judiciary, thereby strengthening our legal system.”
The bill also outlines revised compensation packages for various judicial positions. Justices of the Supreme Court are set to earn a monthly package of N4.21 million, while the President of the Court of Appeal will receive N4.48 million monthly. Additionally, justices of the Court of Appeal and other key judicial figures are slated to receive substantial increases in their monthly remuneration.
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In addition to basic salaries, the revised packages encompass a range of allowances and benefits, including car fueling and maintenance, personal assistance, and medical coverage. These provisions aim to address the diverse needs of judicial officers and ensure their well-being while serving the public.
Moreover, the bill includes provisions for additional allowances not factored into the total monthly package, such as leave allowances and duty tour allowances of $2,000 per night, severance gratuity of N80.78 m after a tenure. This comprehensive approach underscores the government’s commitment to providing comprehensive support to judicial officers throughout their tenure.
The passage of this bill signals a positive step towards enhancing the welfare of judicial officers and bolstering the efficiency and effectiveness of the judicial system. As the nation moves forward, it is hoped that these measures will contribute to a stronger and more resilient judiciary, capable of upholding the principles of justice and fairness for all citizens.
