Federal Judicial Service Commission Approves Yahaya Shafa as Acting Chief Registrar
The Federal Judicial Service Commission (FJSC) has officially sanctioned the appointment of Yahaya Yakubu Shafa as the Acting Chief Registrar of the Federal High Court of Nigeria. This significant judicial administrative decision was formally announced in a statement released by the court's Director of Information, Dr. Catherine Oby Christopher.
Effective Date and Context of the Appointment
According to the official communication, Shafa's appointment took effect from Tuesday, February 17, 2026. This development follows the elevation of the previous Chief Registrar, Sulaiman Amida Hassan, to the Bench of the Federal High Court. Hassan is among fourteen new judges who will be sworn into office by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, on Wednesday.
The statement emphasized that Hassan's promotion to the judicial bench aligns with the court's ongoing commitment to maintaining continuity, efficiency, and stability within its administrative leadership structure. This strategic move ensures that experienced personnel continue to contribute to the judiciary's operational excellence.
Profile of the New Acting Chief Registrar
Yahaya Yakubu Shafa is described as a seasoned judicial administrator and legal practitioner with an impressive track record spanning over eighteen years of progressive experience in Nigeria's justice sector. His extensive background includes:
- Prior service as the Executive Secretary of the Nasarawa State Judicial Service Commission, where he played a pivotal role in judicial administration, policy coordination, and institutional development.
- A wealth of expertise in court administration, legal practice, and institutional reform initiatives.
The Federal High Court expects that Shafa's profound experience will significantly strengthen the administrative machinery of the court and enhance the efficient delivery of justice across Nigeria. His appointment is viewed as a strategic step toward bolstering the court's operational capabilities and ensuring robust judicial processes.
Court Management's Congratulations and Transition
The Federal High Court Management, along with its staff members, extended heartfelt congratulations to both individuals involved in this transition. They commended Mr. Sulaiman Amida Hassan for his dedicated service and wished him success as he assumes his new role on the bench. Simultaneously, the court congratulated Mr. Yahaya Yakubu Shafa on his appointment, expressing confidence in his ability to lead effectively and wishing him a successful tenure as Acting Chief Registrar.
This appointment underscores the Federal High Court's dedication to fostering a seamless administrative transition while upholding the highest standards of judicial integrity and efficiency. The move is anticipated to contribute positively to the court's mission of delivering timely and fair justice throughout the federation.
