Niger State Judiciary Expands Small Claims Courts and Updates Guidelines for Faster Justice

The Niger State Judiciary has taken a bold step toward strengthening access to justice with the introduction of new updates to the practice direction for Small Claims Courts.

According to a statement signed by the Chief Registrar of the Niger State High Court, Barrister Amina Laminde Musa Saidu, the revised practice direction (published in State Gazette No. 16 of 2025) replaces the 2018 guidelines and introduces reforms designed to make justice delivery faster, simpler, and more transparent.

Key Updates Introduced

1. Increased Financial Threshold

   • The claim limit for Small Claims Courts has been raised from ₦3 million to ₦5 million.

   • This means more individuals and businesses can now pursue debt recovery and related claims at a lower cost and with less technical stress.

2. Electronic Service of Summons

   • Under the revised Article 5, summons can now be served through electronic mail (email).

   • This digital shift ensures clarity, transparency, and faster notification, reducing unnecessary case delays.

3. Faster Appeals Process

   • Article 14 now simplifies the appeals procedure, making it more accessible.

   • Appeals must be resolved within 30 days, ensuring timely justice.

      4. Clear Court Guidelines

     • Article 15 provides new operational guidelines to guarantee consistency and efficiency in court proceedings.

4. Expansion of Small Claims Courts

   Perhaps the most notable reform is the expansion of Small Claims Courts across Niger State. The number has increased from 2 courts to 14, spread across magistrate courts in the state.

   This expansion will help ease the burden on existing courts and give more citizens access to quick and affordable justice.

   Judiciary’s Commitment

   The Chief Judge of Niger State, Justice Halima I. Abdul Malik, emphasized that these reforms are proof of the judiciary’s commitment to enhancing access to justice and building public trust in the system.

   Stakeholders and the public are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these new provisions and take advantage of the improved Small Claims Court system for simple debt recovery matters.