The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has inaugurated the design and construction of permanent official residences for the heads of four key federal courts in Abuja.
The beneficiaries include 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 at the flag-off ceremony on Monday, Wike said the project was part of President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to improving the welfare and working conditions of judicial officers as a means of strengthening the justice system.
The multi-billion-naira project, expected to be completed within 12 months, will provide secure and befitting accommodation for the nation’s top judicial officers. Wike disclosed that the Certificates of Occupancy for the residences have been issued in the personal names of the beneficiaries a first in the FCT signifying permanent ownership.
“This is not just a project; it is a legacy,” the minister said. “We are determined to complete and deliver it within one year. The judiciary deserves nothing less.”
The event, held in Abuja, was attended by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN); senior members of the judiciary; and other dignitaries.
In his remarks, Fagbemi commended Wike for translating the government’s promises into tangible results. He described the initiative as a “historic milestone” that will enhance judicial independence and reduce corruption risks within the system.
“He gives promises and walks his talk. Providing dignified accommodation for judges removes distractions and helps them focus on delivering justice,” Fagbemi said.
The Chief Judge of the FCT, Justice Hussein Baba Yusuf, described the project as a “strategic affirmation of judicial welfare, security, and independence.” He noted that a supportive environment for judges is vital to upholding the rule of law.
Also speaking, the President of the National Industrial Court, Justice Benedict Kanyip, hailed the project as a “practical demonstration of institutional support.” He recalled Wike’s earlier interventions in Rivers State, where he provided court buildings and residences for judges initiatives that improved judicial performance and integrity.
Justice Kanyip further noted that the Supreme Court had affirmed in the AG Abia State & Ors v. AG Federation (Executive Order 10) case that judicial housing forms part of judges’ entitlements and is central to their independence.
Fagbemi and Justice Yusuf both lauded the Tinubu administration for its unprecedented support to the judiciary, including a recent 300.2% salary increase for judicial officers and the ongoing construction of 40 judges’ quarters in Katampe District, Abuja.
“A functional, well-equipped judiciary is not only a symbol of good governance but also a guarantee of peace, stability, and investor confidence,” Fagbemi said.
Wike assured that the project, located in prime districts of the FCT, would reflect the dignity of the offices of its occupants and mark the beginning of a new phase in judicial infrastructure development.
Speakers at the event urged state governments to emulate the Federal Government’s initiative by investing more in judicial welfare and infrastructure, emphasizing that true judicial independence depends on tangible support for the bench.
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