The Lagos State House of Assembly is reviewing a proposal to increase the retirement age for magistrates in the state.
Lawmakers said the bill seeks to add five more years to the current retirement age. The goal, according to the Assembly, is to allow experienced judicial officers to remain on the bench longer.
Proponents of the move argue that keeping seasoned magistrates would help reduce disruptions in the court system. They noted that long-running cases often suffer delays when presiding officers exit midstream, and retaining expertise could improve efficiency.
The Assembly also highlighted the value of institutional knowledge. Years of service, it said, equip magistrates with the judgment and experience needed to handle complex matters, and extending their tenure would help preserve that capacity within the judiciary.
The proposal is expected to go through further legislative scrutiny, including committee review and public input, before a final decision is reached. If passed, the change would affect the career timeline of magistrates serving in Lagos State courts.
Lagos Assembly Considers Extending Magistrates’ Retirement Age to 65
