The Federal High Court (FHC) has announced the establishment of Freedom of Information (FoI) Desk to enhance journalists’ and public access to information in the court.
The Director of Information of the FHC, Dr Catherine Christopher, made the announcement on Sunday in a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja.
She said the establishment of the desk was in line with the commitment of the court to uphold transparency, promote accountability and enhance access to information.
“The court hereby announces the establishment and operationalisation of Freedom of Information (FoI) Desk.
“The Information/FoI Desk has been created to serve as a central point for:
“Receiving inquiries from journalists and members of the public.
“Submitting letters, formal FoI requests, and related correspondence;
“Providing guidance on accessing public records and information in line with the Freedom of Information Act,” Christopher said.
The director said the desk, which is located at the FHC’s Headquarters in Abuja, is fully staffed with trained personnel ready to assist individuals and organisations seeking information about the court’s activities, decisions and operations.
She said the desk would also ensure compliance with legal and procedural requirements in accessing information.
“This initiative reflects the court’s ongoing efforts to foster open communication and support the constitutional right to information.
“For further information, please visit the Information/FOI Desk at the Federal High Court Headquarters during official working hours from 8:00am to 4:00pm, or contact us via email at fhc.informationdepartment@gmail.com or phone 09160005854.”
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the FoI Act, passed in 2011, grants citizens a legally enforceable right to access information held by public institutions, including government ministries , agencies and bodies performing public functions.
The Act aims to promote transparency, accountability, and public participation in government.(NAN)
