The Federal High Court's Lagos Judicial Division has commenced a phased relocation to its newly completed complex on Bourdillon Road, Ikoyi, more than a decade after construction of the facility began.
The move from the court's current premises at No. 24, Oyinkan Abayomi Drive, Ikoyi, started on 31 July and is being carried out in phases, according to a notice issued by the Chief Registrar of the court, Yahaya Shafa.
First phase covers key courts and offices
The notice, shared with PREMIUM TIMES on Monday, confirmed that the new complex is located at No. 1B, Bourdillon Road, Ikoyi. The first phase of the relocation includes Vacation Courts 7 and 12, as well as Courts 2, 3, 4 and 5.
In addition to these courtrooms, the offices of the Chief Registrar, the Deputy Chief Registrars, and the Electronic Litigation Registrar of Process (ELRP) are also being moved in the initial phase.
Phased approach to minimise disruption
Mr Shafa explained that the phased relocation is intended to ensure a smooth transition and minimise disruption to court proceedings and administrative activities.
He has asked the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), litigants, the Lagos State Government, and members of the public to take note of the relocation and make the necessary adjustments. Lawyers and litigants with cases before the affected courts are expected to confirm the venue of their proceedings and other official engagements as the relocation continues.
Remaining courts to follow
The Chief Registrar noted that the remaining courts and offices will be moved subsequently, with further announcements to be made as the exercise progresses.
The new complex is expected to provide improved facilities for judges, lawyers, litigants, and other court users, creating a more conducive environment for judicial proceedings.
Background: A long-awaited project
In June 2023, the Administrative Judge of the Federal High Court in Lagos, Justice Olayinka Faji, stressed that the nine-floor complex was expected to begin operations later that year. Speaking during the 2023 Nigerian Bar Association Lagos Branch Law Week, Faji said four retrofitted courtrooms in the facility were expected to come into use.
He noted that the project had faced challenges, including funding difficulties, which he linked to broader problems affecting the judiciary. At the time, Faji said he had inspected the courtrooms and had been assured by those handling the project that the facility would be ready before the end of 2023.
Relocation now underway
More than three years later, the phased relocation has now commenced, moving judicial activities from the old premises on Oyinkan Abayomi Drive to the Bourdillon Road complex.
This development marks a significant milestone for the Federal High Court in Lagos, which has been operating from its previous location for years. The new facility is expected to enhance the efficiency and comfort of judicial operations in the state.
