President Bola Tinubu has urged the judiciary to deliver justice promptly and fairly, warning that delays and bias can weaken democracy and public trust.
The President spoke on Monday during the inauguration of the new Court of Appeal complex in Dakibiyu, Abuja.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu said justice must remain accessible to all Nigerians regardless of status, ethnicity, or wealth.
He stressed that ordinary citizens should continue to see the courts as their final refuge in seeking justice.
Tinubu described the new facility as part of his administration’s efforts to strengthen institutions and improve the justice system.
According to him, the Abuja division of the appellate court operated for years in inadequate conditions that did not reflect its importance.
The President said he ordered the rehabilitation after personally observing the poor state of the court’s previous accommodation.
He commended FCT Minister Nyesom Wike for completing the project within the agreed timeline.
Tinubu praised the minister for delivering the assignment without delays or additional costs.
He noted that the complex contains multiple courtrooms that will help speed up hearings and reduce case congestion.
The President said improved judicial infrastructure would enhance the rule of law and strengthen democratic governance.
He added that ongoing reforms are also targeting critical sectors including education, healthcare, roads, and electricity.
Tinubu further highlighted efforts to build judges’ residences and modernise judicial processes within the Federal Capital Territory.
He assured judicial officers of continued government support, acknowledging the heavy workload handled by appellate court judges.
President of the Court of Appeal, Monica Dongban-Mensem, said the project would greatly improve justice delivery.
She revealed that the Abuja division previously operated with only two courtrooms, slowing the resolution of cases.
Dongban-Mensem expressed confidence that the new structure would accelerate proceedings and improve efficiency.
She thanked the President, Vice President, and FCT Minister for prioritising investment in the justice sector.
In his remarks, Wike said Tinubu approved the project after being informed about the poor condition of court facilities.
He disclosed that similar interventions are being extended to other federal courts and judicial institutions in Abuja.
Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, described the complex as a landmark contribution to the judiciary.
He maintained that the current administration has provided unprecedented support for judicial development.
Minister of State for the FCT, Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure, said the project reflects government commitment to efficient justice delivery.
She noted that a stronger justice system remains essential for national stability and democratic growth.
