By Nworisa Michael
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has formally approached the Senate, seeking approval for far-reaching judicial reforms aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s appellate court system.
At plenary on Tuesday, Senate President Godswill Akpabio read a letter from the President requesting an amendment to the Court of Appeal Act, proposing an increase in the number of justices from 70 to 110.
According to the letter, the proposal is designed to address the growing workload at the Court of Appeal and enhance the speed of justice delivery nationwide.
President Tinubu also called for the legal backing of virtual court hearings, a move expected to modernise appellate proceedings and reduce delays caused by physical sittings.
The President noted that the reforms align with ongoing efforts to improve judicial efficiency, expand access to justice, and adapt the judiciary to modern technological realities.
If approved by the National Assembly, the amendment would mark one of the most significant structural changes to Nigeria’s appellate court in recent years.