Senate Approves Bill To Increase CJN Salary To N5.39m, Others

The Nigerian Senate has approved a bill to significantly increase CJN salary and allowances alongside other judicial officers to enhance their independence and effectiveness, with broad support across political lines.

The Nigerian Senate has passed a bill aimed at increasing the salaries and allowances of judicial officers, reflecting a substantial boost in compensation across various levels of the judiciary.

Sponsored by Senator Ashiru Yisa of Kwara South, the bill received strong bipartisan support and aims to enhance the independence and effectiveness of the judiciary.

The proposed changes would significantly raise the monthly earnings of top judicial positions. For example, the Chief Justice of Nigeria is set to receive a monthly salary of N5.39 million.

Similarly, other high-ranking judicial figures, including Justices of the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal, will see their salaries adjusted to N3.73 million and N3.53 million respectively.

In addition to the salary increases, the bill specifies several other benefits such as leave allowances, estacode for international duties, duty tour allowances, and a substantial severance gratuity at the end of their tenure. Judicial officers are also eligible for a motor vehicle loan, which must be repaid by the end of their service.

This legislative push, initiated by President Bola Tinubu and articulated in a letter presented by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, aims to bolster the judicial system’s independence by ensuring that judges are well-compensated and free from financial pressures that could impede their judicial duties.

During the debate, senators praised the initiative, highlighting its importance in upholding justice and maintaining the rule of law in Nigeria.