The Federal High Court has announced its 2026 annual vacation, scheduled to run from July 27 to September 11, 2026, across all its divisions. To ensure that urgent and time-sensitive cases are handled during this period, special vacation courts will be established in four key judicial divisions.
Official Announcement
Dr. Catherine Oby Christopher, the Director of Information of the Federal High Court, released a statement on Wednesday on behalf of the Chief Judge, Hon. Justice John Terhemba Tsoho. The statement confirmed that the annual break is approved under Order 46, Rule 4(d) of the Federal High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules, 2019.
Continuity of Judicial Services
Despite the vacation, judicial services will remain available for cases requiring immediate attention. Designated vacation courts will operate in Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Enugu to ensure uninterrupted access to justice.
Designated Vacation Judges
The Chief Judge has appointed eight judges to preside during the vacation period:
- Abuja: Justices J.O. Abdulmalik and O.A. Egwuatu
- Lagos: Justices Akintayo Aluko and Ogazi F. Nkemakonam
- Port Harcourt: Justices P.M. Ayua and A.T. Mohammed
- Enugu: Justices F.O.G. Ogunbanjo and M.T. Segun-Bello
Guidance for Legal Practitioners
Legal practitioners and the public are advised to file and prosecute only urgent matters at the nearest vacation court. Justice Tsoho also extended his wishes for a pleasant annual vacation to all judges of the court.
