The Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, branches in Makurdi, Gboko and Otukpo have appealed to Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia to approve legislation seeking to extend the retirement age of magistrates and law officers in the state Ministry of Justice.
The branches said the bill, which was passed by the Benue State House of Assembly on May 6, 2026, would help preserve the expertise of experienced legal practitioners within the state’s justice system.
Chairman of the Makurdi NBA Branch, Joseph Mtemdoo Gbagyo, made the appeal while speaking on behalf of the three branches at the opening of the 2026/2027 Benue State Judiciary Legal Year at the High Court Complex in Makurdi.
The event was held under the theme: “The Nigerian Judiciary at a Crossroads: Innovations, Accountability and Public Trust.”
Gbagyo explained that the annual Legal Year ceremony provides an opportunity for legal professionals to review developments within the justice sector and identify priorities for the new year.
He also highlighted other legislation passed by the Assembly, including the Area Court Amendment Law 2026, subject to confirmation by the Chief Judge, alongside laws establishing the State Electricity Commission and the Water and Sanitation Regulatory Commission.
The NBA chairman conveyed goodwill from the 33rd President of the association, Mrs Oyinkansola Badejo-Okunsanya, SAN, who recently reiterated her commitment to improving relations between the Bar and the Bench through constructive engagement.
Gbagyo commended Chief Judge Justice Maurice Ahemba Ikpambese for his leadership and efforts to improve court infrastructure, digitalise operations and expand magisterial divisions across the state.
He identified renovation works at courts in Daudu, Tarka, Adikpo, Okpoga and Makurdi as notable steps towards improving working conditions for judicial personnel.
The chairman further acknowledged the establishment of a health clinic at the High Court Complex for judiciary staff and lawyers, as well as initiatives promoting gender inclusion and the protection of vulnerable groups.
He welcomed plans to revive quarterly Bar-Bench meetings, describing the engagement as an avenue for addressing challenges affecting the administration of justice.
Gbagyo also appreciated Governor Alia for granting financial autonomy to the state judiciary and supporting infrastructure projects, including the construction of a new Ministry of Justice Complex and the harmonisation of the salary structure for members of the Law Officers Association of Nigeria (LOAN).
However, he urged the governor to approve robe allowances for law officers.
The NBA chairman also praised the appointment of lawyers to strategic government positions, including Secretary to the State Government, Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Chief of Staff to the Governor, and Principal Special Assistant on Legal Matters.
Benue NBA urges Alia to sign retirement age bill for magistrates, law officers