The National Judicial Council (NJC) has recommended 12 Federal High Court judges for promotion to the Court of Appeal in a major elevation exercise aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s appellate judiciary.

The recommendation, which follows a rigorous shortlisting process by the Federal Judicial Service Commission (FJSC), was drawn from an initial pool of 48 nominees from Federal and State High Courts.

Among the prominent judges elevated are Justice James Kolawole Omotosho from Ogun State and Justice Emeka Nwite from Ebonyi State.

Justice Omotosho is widely recognised for presiding over the high-profile terrorism trial of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu. His rulings in the case drew significant national and international attention, frequently testing the balance between judicial independence, national security, and human rights considerations.

Justice Emeka Nwite, who sits in Abuja, has handled several sensitive political and constitutional cases, including election petitions and intra-party leadership disputes. He has been particularly noted for adjudicating contentious matters involving parties such as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and other high-stakes political crises.

The NJC, as the constitutional body responsible for appointments and promotions in the superior courts, has now forwarded the list of 12 successful candidates. Their elevation to the Court of Appeal is now subject to formal notification by the President and confirmation by the Senate.

Full List of Recommended Judges:

• Hon. Justice Raphael Ajuwa – Bayelsa State
• Hon. Justice Ijohor M. Jennifer – Benue State
• Hon. Justice Abua Elias Ojie – Cross River State
• Hon. Justice Emeka Nwite – Ebonyi State
• Hon. Justice Abodunde M. Oluwatoyin – Ekiti State
• Hon. Justice Abdulhameed M. Yakubu – Gombe State
• Hon. Justice Sanusi Kado – Katsina State
• Hon. Justice Sabiu Bala Shuaibu – Kebbi State
• Hon. Justice James K. Omotosho – Ogun State
• Hon. Justice Ademola Enikuomehin – Ondo State
• Hon. Justice Veronica Julcit Dadom – Plateau State
• Hon. Justice Dauda Njane Buba – Taraba State

This latest batch of elevations is expected to bring fresh expertise and experience to the Court of Appeal, particularly in handling complex criminal, constitutional, and political matters.