Wike Flags Off Construction of Official Residences for Top Judges in Abuja

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has officially flagged off the design and construction of permanent residences for the heads of four major courts in Nigeria a milestone project aimed at improving judicial welfare and independence.

The beneficiaries of the project are the President of the Court of Appeal, the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, the Chief Judge of the FCT High Court, and the President of the National Industrial Court.

Speaking during the flag-off ceremony in Abuja on Monday, Wike said the initiative reflects President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening the judiciary and promoting institutional dignity. He noted that Certificates of Occupancy for the residences have been issued in the personal names of the beneficiaries, a move he described as historic and symbolic of permanent ownership.

The multi-billion-naira project, located in prime districts of Abuja, is expected to be completed within 12 months.

Wike emphasized that the project represents more than just physical development but also a legacy of reform. “This is not just a project; it is a legacy. We will not disappoint. The judiciary deserves a conducive environment to perform its constitutional duties without fear or hindrance,” he said.

In his remarks, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), commended Wike for turning government promises into reality. He described the FCT Minister as “a man who keeps his word,” adding that adequate housing would enhance judicial performance and reduce corruption risks.

“Once accommodation and salaries are guaranteed, judges can focus fully on delivering justice,” Fagbemi said.

The Chief Judge of the FCT, Justice Hussein Baba Yusuf, hailed the project as “a strategic affirmation of judicial welfare, security, and independence.” He said the initiative underscores the administration’s recognition of the judiciary as a key pillar of democracy and good governance.

Also speaking, the President of the National Industrial Court, Justice Benedict Kanyip, praised Wike’s consistent support for the judiciary, recalling similar gestures during his tenure as Governor of Rivers State. He noted that comfortable and secure residences are essential for judicial officers to work without fear or external influence.

Justice Kanyip referenced the Supreme Court’s judgment in AG Abia State & Ors v. AG Federation (Executive Order 10 case), which recognized judicial housing as part of judges’ emoluments and central to judicial independence.

The event was attended by top government officials, senior members of the judiciary, and representatives of the bar. Speakers commended the Tinubu administration’s recent reforms in the justice sector, including a 300.2% salary increase for judicial officers and the construction of 40 new judges’ quarters in Katampe District, Abuja.

Fagbemi described these developments as “unmatched in over two decades,” urging future leaders to sustain the momentum.

“A well-equipped and independent judiciary is the foundation of peace, stability, and investor confidence,” he said.

Participants at the ceremony called on state governments to emulate the Federal Government’s example by investing in judicial welfare and infrastructure, stressing that genuine judicial independence requires tangible support, not just policy declarations.