The Lagos State House of Assembly has initiated steps to extend the retirement age of magistrates from 60 to 65 years.
This proposal is part of the Lagos Magistrate Courts Amendment Bill 2026, which successfully passed its second reading on Monday.
The suggested five-year increase aims to retain skilled judicial personnel and maintain stability in the justice system, especially for cases that are still open in the courts.
Lawmakers have expressed that allowing experienced magistrates to continue serving could safeguard vital judicial knowledge and minimize disruptions that occur when seasoned professionals retire while managing ongoing cases.
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This initiative also responds to growing worries about the rising number of cases in magistrates’ courts and how the departure of experienced judicial officers might affect the quick resolution of these cases.
If enacted, the amendment would adjust the mandatory retirement age for magistrates from the current 60 to 65 years.
The bill will undergo additional legislative review before it can be enacted into law.
