Abuja: President Bola Tinubu has emphasized that the welfare of judicial officers is a strategic investment in strengthening the rule of law in Nigeria. Tinubu made this statement in Abuja during the inauguration of ten housing units for justices of the Court of Appeal at the newly constructed Judges Quarters in Katampe.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the President, represented by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, highlighted the project as a demonstration of his administration’s commitment to improving the physical infrastructure of the justice sector. He stressed that providing secure accommodation and conducive working environments for judges benefits the entire justice system and the nation.
Tinubu assured the judicial arm of the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and advancing justice administration. He noted that today’s event was more than an unveiling of physical infrastructure but a demonstration of the government’s commitment to the judiciary’s welfare, independence, efficiency, and dignity.
The President directed the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr. Nyesom Wike, to undertake the housing projects to improve the welfare of judicial officers. Tinubu commended Wike and his team for their dedication and efficiency in implementing his directives. He called on state governments to make similar investments in critical infrastructure for the judiciary.
In his remarks, Wike clarified that the effort was not an attempt to influence the judiciary but a commitment to strengthening its independence. He emphasized that building facilities for judges is crucial for the state’s benefit. Wike expressed gratitude to Tinubu for supporting the initiative to improve judges’ welfare.
Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, President of the Court of Appeal, thanked Tinubu and Wike for recognizing judicial welfare as key to building a strong rule of law. She noted that providing housing for judicial officers ensures a tranquil environment and protection from external coercion.
In a related development, Tinubu laid bricks for the construction of Judges’ Quarters for the National Industrial Court and Code of Conduct Bureau. Justice Benedict Kanyip, President of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN), praised the strategic move to improve judicial welfare, security, and independence, describing it as a commendable milestone.
Mr. Richard Dauda, acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority, mentioned that the project was awarded in September 2024. It includes designing and constructing 40 Judges’ Quarters, with ten houses specifically for Court of Appeal judges. The estate is equipped with various amenities and infrastructure, including event centers, recreational grounds, and essential utilities.