Supreme Court Directs Lawyers to Use New E-Filing System

The Supreme Court of Nigeria has mandated that lawyers with appeals and motions scheduled for hearing between September and December 2026 must upload all relevant court processes through the Nigerian Case Management System (NCMS). This directive is part of the court's transition to an electronic filing and case management system aimed at improving the administration of justice.

Mandatory Electronic Filing

According to a statement signed by the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, Kabir Akanbi, legal practitioners are required to upload the necessary documents at least 30 days before their scheduled hearing dates. This requirement aligns with Rule 10(1) of the Supreme Court Practice Direction, 2026.

Accessing the NCMS

Lawyers can access the list of appeals and motions fixed for hearing by visiting the Supreme Court's website, selecting the Litigation section, navigating to the Nigerian Case Management System, and downloading the relevant documents. The required uploads include the Record of Appeal, Briefs of Argument, pending Motions, and all other filed processes.

Enhancing Judicial Efficiency

The Supreme Court emphasized that strict compliance with this directive will facilitate the seamless operation of the NCMS and ensure the efficient and timely determination of cases. This move follows the official launch of the Supreme Court's electronic filing system and the Nigerian Case Management System on July 1, 2026, under the leadership of Chief Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun.

For more information, refer to the official announcement: Supreme Court Directs Lawyers to Use New E-Filing System