The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has pledged the construction of additional housing units for judges within the FCT, underscoring President Bola Tinubu’s administration commitment to strengthening the judiciary and improving judicial productivity.
Wike made the announcement during the Special Court session marking the commencement of the 2025/2026 Legal Year of the Court of Appeal in Abuja on Monday.
He emphasised that budgetary allocations have been set aside to construct residential houses for High Court judges, addressing the persistent housing shortage among judicial officers.
According to the minister, well-equipped court facilities, chambers, and support infrastructure are essential for ensuring that judicial officers operate in a safe, professional, and conducive environment.
“Under the President’s decisive leadership, the FCT Administration has handed over the Certificate of Occupancy for the Supreme Court’s land and initiated full perimeter fencing of the complex to safeguard the nation’s apex court,” Wike said.
He noted that these interventions provide confidence and security to the judiciary, which had been lacking under previous administrations.
Highlighting ongoing projects, Wike said the FCTA is currently constructing residential quarters for Heads of Courts, a new Magistrate Court Complex in Jabi, and staff quarters for the Nigerian Law School.
Plans are also underway for the Court of Appeal Abuja division complex and residences for Justices of the National Industrial High Court and Federal High Court.
“These projects are designed to ensure judges can perform their duties effectively.
Comfortable and secure accommodation allows them to focus on delivering justice efficiently, without being distracted by inadequate living conditions,” he said.
Wike also reiterated the administration’s commitment to justice reforms, including collaboration with the judiciary to digitize court proceedings and registries.
This move aimed to improve efficiency, reduce manual processes, and accelerate case resolution.
“As we enter the new Legal Year, the FCT Administration remains resolute in supporting judicial reforms.
”Our focus is on completing the residential quarters for Heads of Courts and the Jabi Magistrate Court Complex promptly, ensuring they are ready for immediate use,” he stated.
The minister concluded by stressing that justice must never be compromised, describing it as the bedrock of democracy and a key safeguard of public trust.
He called on judges, legal practitioners, government agencies, and citizens to collaborate in strengthening Nigeria’s judicial system.
Wike expressed confidence that the 2025/2026 Legal Year would usher in unprecedented success, wisdom, and efficiency for the Court of Appeal and the broader judicial sector.
