The Federal High Court has announced that its 2025 Christmas vacation will commence on December 19, with normal court sittings across all judicial divisions set to resume on January 7, 2026.
The announcement was made public in Abuja by Dr. Catherine Christopher, the court’s Director of Information, who explained that the notice aligns with a circular authorized by Chief Judge Justice John Tsoho.
The schedule was detailed in an official document titled “Notice of 2025 Christmas Vacation and Roster for Vacation Judges.”
According to Dr. Christopher, the vacation schedule adheres to Order 46, Rule 4(c) of the Federal High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules, 2019 (as amended). She highlighted that while the court will be on break, key judicial divisions—Abuja, Lagos, and Port Harcourt—will remain functional and accessible to litigants and the public.
During this period, only certain categories of urgent matters will be entertained. These include:
* Enforcement of fundamental rights cases
* Cases concerning the arrest or release of vessels
* Issues deemed to be of urgent national importance
Dr. Christopher noted that vacation judges assigned to each division will handle these critical matters, ensuring continuity of essential judicial services throughout the festive period.
The Roster of Vacation Judges for the 2025 Christmas break is as follows:
* Abuja Division: Justice Emeka Nwite and Justice Musa Liman
* Lagos Division: Justice Akintayo Aluko and Justice Isaac Dipeolu
* Port Harcourt Division: Justice P. M. Ayua and Justice A. T. Mohammed
* Enugu Division: Justice Folashade Giwa-Ogunbanjo
The roster, approved by Chief Judge Justice Tsoho, aims to maintain smooth handling of urgent cases while the bulk of the court observes the recess.
Dr. Christopher also conveyed the Chief Judge’s festive greetings, with Justice Tsoho extending his warm wishes for a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year to all members of the judiciary.
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She added that the break offers judicial officers and staff a chance to recharge after a demanding year, while essential services remain available to Nigerians.
As in previous years, other federal institutions, ministries, and agencies are expected to adjust their operations during the holiday season, though they are required to maintain critical services.
