President Bola Tinubu has transmitted the Court of Appeal (Amendment) Bill, 2026 to the Senate for legislative consideration, seeking far-reaching reforms to strengthen Nigeria’s appellate justice system.
The proposed amendment seeks to increase the number of Justices of the Court of Appeal, including the President of the Court, from 70 to 110, in order to address the growing appellate caseload and improve judicial efficiency nationwide.
The Bill also provides for the conduct of Court of Appeal proceedings through electronic and virtual means, reflecting technological advancements and evolving judicial practices.
In addition, the proposed legislation seeks to establish an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Centre within the Court of Appeal.
Under the Bill, appropriate appellate matters may be referred to the Centre for settlement, while the President of the Court of Appeal is empowered to issue regulations and practice directions for its effective operation.
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The Bill further introduces procedural and administrative reforms, aimed at enhancing appellate procedures, improving Court operations, and ensuring greater efficiency and legal certainty in appellate practice.
According to the President, the amendment is designed to strengthen the institutional capacity, efficiency, and effectiveness of the Court of Appeal, in line with constitutional provisions and contemporary justice sector realities.
It also seeks to update terminology and definitions in the principal Act, including the recognition of virtual hearings and modern correctional nomenclature, while consolidating interpretative provisions to ensure clarity, consistency, and alignment with current legal and institutional standards.
Among the major amendments is the restructuring of provisions relating to the composition, precedence, and ranking of Justices of the Court of Appeal, including clear guidelines on the ranking of the President of the Court and the determination of seniority among Justices.
President Tinubu noted that the proposed amendments are timely and necessary, as they respond to increasing pressures on the appellate justice system, aim to reduce delays in the administration of justice, enhance access to justice for litigants across the Federation, and reinforce public confidence in the judiciary.
He therefore urged the Senate to give the Bill expeditious consideration and passage.
The Senate had referred the president’s communication to its Committee on Rules and Business for further legislative action.
(Editor: Ken Eseni)
