The Lagos State House of Assembly has commenced consideration of a proposal to increase the retirement age for magistrates in the state from 60 to 65 years.
The development followed deliberations during Monday's plenary on the Magistrate Courts Amendment Bill 2026, which seeks to strengthen the magistracy, retain experienced judicial officers and enhance the administration of justice.
Leading the debate, the Chairman of the House Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, Public Petitions and LASIEC, Oladipo Ajomale, said the proposed amendment was designed to improve the welfare and conditions of service for magistrates.
Ajomale noted that the Lagos State Government had invested substantially in the training and professional development of magistrates, stressing that improved working conditions would help retain their experience and expertise within the judiciary.
He added that extending the retirement age could promote continuity in cases before the courts and reduce disruptions that often arise when magistrates handling ongoing matters retire.
Source: Channels