The House of Representatives has passed into law an act prescribing the salaries, allowances, and fringe benefits for judicial office holders in Nigeria.
The bill, submitted to the House by the President on Tuesday, received approval on Wednesday, March 20, marking a milestone in addressing the welfare of judicial personnel in the country.
According to the provisions of the bill, the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) is set to earn a total monthly package of N5,385,047.26. Other justices of the Supreme Court will receive a total package of N4,213,192.54, while the President of the Court of Appeal is slated to earn N4,478,415.78 per month. Full List of Nigerian Billionaires Who Own Football Clubs in Europe .
Furthermore, justices of the Court of Appeal are to receive a total monthly package of N3,726,665.40.
The bill also outlines the monthly packages for various judicial office holders, including the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, President of the National Industrial Court, and others, totaling N3,527,022.61.
This comprehensive monthly package encompasses basic salaries and various regular allowances such as motor vehicle fueling and maintenance, personal assistance, hardship, entertainment, utilities, security, outfit, journal subscription, medical, along with service allowances, restricted or forced lifestyle, dual responsibility, and legal researchers.
Additionally, the House approved other job-related allowances not included in the total monthly package, including leave allowances, estacode per night of $2000 when applicable, duty tour allowances, and severance gratuity of N80,775,707.70 upon the successful completion of tenure. Furthermore, judicial office holders have the option of a motor vehicle loan, which must be repaid before the expiration of their tenure.
This legislative move underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing the welfare of judicial personnel and ensuring a conducive working environment for the dispensation of justice in Nigeria.
By providing competitive salaries and allowances, the aim is to attract and retain skilled professionals within the judiciary, thereby bolstering the integrity and efficiency of the justice system.
As the bill awaits further processes and eventual implementation, it represents a significant step towards addressing longstanding issues surrounding the remuneration and benefits of judicial office holders, ultimately contributing to the advancement of the judiciary and the rule of law in Nigeria.