The National Judicial Council (NJC) has introduced a new policy requiring that names of candidates recommended for judicial appointments be published so the public can scrutinize their credentials. The move is part of efforts to build trust in the judiciary, ensure integrity, and allow Nigerians to contribute to the selection process.
At its 108th meeting held on April 29–30, 2025, the NJC approved a policy mandating that all memoranda on judicial appointments already pending before the Council with names included must be made public. After that, the Federal Judicial Service Commission, all State Judicial Service Commissions, and the Committee for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) must also publish the names of all candidates recommended for appointment.
On May 5, 2025, the NJC published a list of 82 candidates shortlisted for judicial positions in various states including two nominees for Chief Judge of Ekiti State to seek feedback from the public.
The NJC says the policy aims to let Nigerians comment on the suitability, integrity, and reputation of candidates before final appointments. Ahmed Saleh, the NJC Secretary, explained that through public input, the Council hopes to prevent any candidate with questionable background from slipping through and to strengthen the credibility of judicial appointments.
Legal observers and civil society groups have welcomed the change, saying it’s long overdue. Lawyers praised the move for increasing transparency and accountability in a system often criticised for opacity and favouritism.
The NJC publishes in newspapers and via its social media outlets the full list of shortlisted candidates.
The public is given 14 days to submit comments or objections about any candidate’s competence, character, or suitability.
Comments need to be in writing and often must include specific particulars. Some submissions must be backed by a verifying affidavit to ensure seriousness and avoid frivolous objections.
While the policy has been broadly welcomed, some critics say that publishing names alone is not enough.
There’s concern about what weight public comments will have. Will objections actually lead to disqualification? Or will they be ignored?
There’s also risk of politicisation, where opponents may submit unjustified complaints to block certain candidates. The NJC has warned against false and unsubstantiated complaints, saying there will be consequences.
Others say that factors like merit, seniority, and experience should be more visible in the shortlist to avoid accusations of bias.
The judiciary in Nigeria has been under increasing pressure. Public confidence has been affected by allegations of corruption, unfair rulings, and lack of transparency in appointment and promotion of judges. Civil society groups have demanded reform for years.
The new policy by NJC is seen as a response to those demands an attempt to restore faith in the justice system and align judicial appointments with democratic values.
Lawyers’ groups and transparency advocates described the policy as positive, with many saying it will help dissuade unfit individuals from even applying.
Some members of the public welcomed the chance to participate, viewing it as a way to hold institutions accountable.
Others, however, are watching closely to see if the policy leads to meaningful change in how judges are chosen whether names are published simply as formality or with real impact.
The National Judicial Council’s decision to publish the names of shortlisted judicial candidates marks a significant reform in Nigeria’s judicial appointment process. It offers an opportunity for transparency, public participation, and greater accountability elements long demanded by legal experts and civil society.
However, for this measure to move beyond symbolism, the NJC must ensure that public feedback is taken seriously, that selection remains merit-based, and that the judiciary demonstrates through actions not just words that its processes are fair, competent, and free of undue influence.
