President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening judicial independence and driving institutional reforms as he commissioned a newly completed 10-unit Court of Appeal Judges’ Quarters in the Katampe District of Abuja.
Tinubu described the project as a deliberate investment in the rule of law and democratic governance, noting that it reflects efforts to improve the working and living conditions of judicial officers.
Represented at the event by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), the President said the housing project is part of a series of judicial infrastructure initiatives being rolled out to mark the third anniversary of his administration.
Tinubu stressed that an effective justice system goes beyond legislation and personnel, requiring adequate infrastructure and support systems to function optimally.
He explained that the project represents a special federal intervention outside the judiciary’s regular budgetary provisions, which he said have also been significantly increased under his government.
According to him, providing modern accommodation for judges is aimed at enhancing judicial independence, efficiency, and overall service delivery, adding that the welfare of judicial officers should be seen as a national investment.
The President further stated that ongoing investments in judicial infrastructure demonstrate the government’s belief that a strong justice sector is essential to national stability and development.
He also revealed plans for further expansion of judicial facilities within the Katampe District, with additional land allocated for institutions including the National Industrial Court, Code of Conduct Tribunal, Federal High Court, and the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory. He suggested that the area could eventually become a dedicated “Judiciary Boulevard.”
Tinubu commended the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, for what he described as the efficient execution of the project, while also urging state governments to emulate the Federal Government by investing more in judicial infrastructure within their jurisdictions.
In his remarks, Wike called on state governors to take greater responsibility for supporting federal judicial institutions located within their states, arguing that such courts primarily serve residents of host states.
He cited his experience as Governor of Rivers State, where he facilitated the establishment of a National Industrial Court division and provided accommodation to ease access to justice and reduce travel burdens for litigants.
Wike dismissed concerns that government support for judicial infrastructure could compromise independence, insisting instead that such investments strengthen the justice system.
He also disclosed that President Tinubu encouraged him to prioritise the welfare and infrastructure needs of the judiciary.
The President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, described the new facility as a significant milestone in improving the working environment of judicial officers, noting that their living conditions can indirectly influence the quality of justice delivery.
She emphasised that secure and conducive housing helps protect judges from external pressures, safeguards judicial integrity, and supports the retention of experienced personnel within the judiciary.
Earlier, officials of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) said the project forms part of a larger residential development for judges in the area, complete with modern amenities and infrastructure.
The commissioning highlights the administration’s continued focus on judicial infrastructure as part of broader governance and institutional reforms.
