Nigeria has released the full list of judicial officers nominated for elevation to the Court of Appeal, marking a significant step in strengthening the country’s appellate judiciary. The nominees were drawn from various courts across the federation, including State High Courts, the Federal High Court, Customary Courts of Appeal, Sharia Courts of Appeal, and the National Industrial Court.
The nominations reflect a broad geographical spread and judicial experience, showcasing jurists from Benue, Plateau, Gombe, Taraba, Katsina, Kebbi, Ebonyi, Bayelsa, Cross River, Ekiti, Ogun, Lagos, Ondo, the Federal Capital Territory, and other jurisdictions. Legal observers say the diversity of the nominees underscores efforts to reinforce professionalism, balance, and depth within Nigeria’s appellate court system.
Among those nominated are seasoned judges currently serving in State High Courts, Federal High Courts, Customary Courts of Appeal, and Sharia Courts of Appeal. The list also features senior judicial officers with extensive experience in constitutional law, commercial disputes, industrial relations, customary law, and Islamic jurisprudence.
Notable nominees include Hon. Justice Ibrahim I. Mohammed, Hon. Justice Augustine Lorhemen Ityonyiman, Hon. Justice Ijohor Mbalamen Jennifer, and Hon. Justice Dennis Mbaafumega Igyuse from Benue State. Plateau State is represented by jurists such as Hon. Justice Jacob Azi Atsen, Hon. Justice Veronica Julcit Dadom, and Hon. Justice Nankwat Dawat Shaseet, while Gombe State produced four nominees including Hon. Justice Abdulhameed Mohammed Yakubu and Hon. Justice Daurabo Suleiman Sikkam.
The list also features prominent judges from Taraba, Katsina, Kebbi, Ebonyi, Bayelsa, Cross River, Ekiti, Ogun, Lagos, Ondo, and the FCT. Senior legal figures such as Hon. Justice Sanusi Kado of the National Industrial Court and Hon. Justice Safiya Badamasi Umar, SAN, further highlight the depth of experience among the nominees.
If confirmed, the nominees are expected to bolster the capacity of the Court of Appeal, improve case management, and enhance the delivery of justice nationwide. The appointments are subject to the constitutionally required screening and approval processes.
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The full list of nominees reflects Nigeria’s ongoing judicial reforms aimed at ensuring a stronger, more efficient appellate court system capable of meeting the country’s growing legal demands.