Tinubu Commissions New Court of Appeal Complex in Abuja

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the judiciary with improved infrastructure, better welfare and reforms aimed at improving access to justice across the country.

Speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima during the inauguration of the new Court of Appeal Abuja Division Building Complex in Dakibiyu, Abuja, the President described the project as part of efforts to improve key democratic institutions under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The newly completed complex contains two large courtrooms, eight smaller courtrooms, a library, ten judges’ suites, three conference halls, administrative offices and other supporting facilities designed to improve judicial operations.

Tinubu said the project was more than just a physical structure, adding that it reflected the government’s determination to provide suitable facilities for the administration of justice. He recalled that the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal had operated for years from an inadequate temporary facility despite handling a large volume of cases.

According to him, improving the condition of the court became necessary after he was informed about the challenges faced by judicial officers. He noted that the new facility would help speed up court proceedings, reduce delays and improve confidence in the justice system.

The President commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for completing the project within the agreed timeframe. He said the minister had demonstrated commitment to infrastructure development across the capital city through the delivery of several projects.

Tinubu stated that the new complex would contribute to faster case management, ease pressure on correctional facilities and strengthen democratic governance. He added that the administration would continue to support the judiciary through reforms, increased funding and investments in infrastructure.

He also praised Visible Construction Limited for successfully executing the project, describing the development as proof that indigenous companies can deliver quality projects that meet international standards.

The President assured judicial officers that more support would be provided to improve their working conditions and enable them to carry out their responsibilities effectively. He urged judges and justices to continue dispensing justice fairly and without discrimination.

Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, described the commissioning as an important development for Nigeria’s judiciary and democratic system. He said the project coincided with activities marking the 50th anniversary of the Court of Appeal.

Fagbemi stated that the Tinubu administration had taken several steps to improve the judiciary, including welfare packages for judicial officers and investments in court infrastructure across the country.

According to him, one of the major achievements of the administration was the review of judicial officers’ salaries and allowances, which resulted in a substantial increase after many years without adjustment.

He also said government efforts had extended to the construction of residential accommodation for judges and justices as well as the appointment of qualified judicial officers to strengthen courts at different levels.

Speaking at the event, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike said the project was initiated after concerns were raised about the poor condition of the Abuja Division and the accommodation challenges faced by judicial officers.

He disclosed that the FCT Administration had completed housing projects for Court of Appeal justices and was also working on residences for judges of the Federal High Court, FCT High Court, National Industrial Court and the Code of Conduct Tribunal.

Wike maintained that the judiciary could not function effectively without suitable infrastructure and a conducive working environment. He added that efforts to improve judicial independence must be supported by investments in facilities and welfare.

The minister also urged residents of the Federal Capital Territory to fulfil their civic responsibilities, including the payment of taxes, ground rents and other statutory charges, noting that development projects depend largely on available revenue.

President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, described the new complex as a major improvement for the administration of justice. She explained that the Abuja Division had struggled for years with limited courtrooms and office space despite handling one of the busiest caseloads in the country.

She noted that the shortage of facilities often affected the speed of court proceedings and forced the division to rely on courtrooms provided by other courts. She expressed appreciation to the Federal High Court, National Industrial Court, FCT High Court and the Customary Court of Appeal for accommodating the court over the years.

Justice Dongban-Mensem said the new complex would provide a more suitable environment for judges, lawyers and litigants while improving the efficiency of judicial activities.

Also speaking, the Managing Director of Visible Construction Limited, Olalekan Adebiyi, said the project demonstrated the ability of Nigerian companies to execute major infrastructure projects. He expressed appreciation to the Federal Government and the FCT Administration for the opportunity to deliver the facility.

The commissioning formed part of activities marking the third anniversary of the Tinubu administration and the golden jubilee celebration of the Court of Appeal. Government officials said the project reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen institutions, improve judicial operations and expand access to justice for Nigerians.