| Federal Judicial Service Commission | |
| Formed: | 1999 |
| Jurisdiction: | Federal Republic of Nigeria |
| Headquarters: | Supreme Court Complex, Abuja |
| Chief1 Name: | Justice Kayode Ariwoola |
| Chief1 Position: | Chairman |
| Chief2 Name: | Halimatu Abdullahi Turaki |
| Chief2 Position: | Secretary |
| Parent Department: | National Judicial Council |
The Federal Judicial Service Commission (FJSC) is an entity established by Section 153 (1) of the Constitution of Nigeria of 1999, as amended. Its primary responsibility is to advise the National Judicial Council (NJC) on nominations for key judicial appointments.[1] These include positions like the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justices of the Supreme Court, President of the Court of Appeal, among others. The FJSC is empowered to recommend the removal of judicial officers and exercises control over certain court personnel.[2]
The FJSC was created in accordance with the 1999 Nigerian Constitution, which marked the return to democracy in Nigeria. It succeeded the former Federal Judicial Service Committee, dissolved in 1988, aiming to safeguard the judiciary's independence from executive influence.[3]
Consisting of nine members, the FJSC is appointed by the Nigerian President, upon the NJC's recommendation. The members include the Chief Justice of Nigeria, President of the Court of Appeal, Attorney-General, Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, President of the National Industrial Court, legal practitioners, and individuals recognized for their integrity. Halimatu Abdullahi Turaki serves as the Secretary and Chief Executive of the Commission.[4]
The FJSC is primarily tasked with advising the NJC on judicial appointments and recommending the discipline or removal of judicial officers.[5] It holds the authority to manage personnel in specific courts and is empowered to perform various functions conferred by law. Ancillary tasks include organizing training programs, publishing judicial materials, maintaining a website, collaborating with judicial bodies, and contributing to the promotion of the rule of law and judicial reforms.[6]