President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday commissioned 10 residential quarters built for Justices of the Federal High Court in Katampe District, Abuja, as part of efforts to improve the welfare and working conditions of judicial officers. The project was inaugurated on his behalf by Vice President Kashim Shettima during a ceremony attended by senior government officials, members of the judiciary and other stakeholders.
Tinubu said the new housing project forms part of his administration’s plan to strengthen democratic institutions and support the judiciary. According to him, judicial independence can only thrive when judges have access to secure accommodation, decent welfare and a peaceful environment that allows them to carry out their duties without distractions.
The President described the project as more than a housing development, noting that it reflects the government’s commitment to supporting one of the key institutions responsible for upholding justice and the rule of law. He explained that the provision of quality homes for judges would help improve their comfort, security and overall well-being.
He noted that the commissioning came shortly after the inauguration of similar residential quarters for Justices of the Court of Appeal, adding that the projects are part of ongoing efforts to strengthen public institutions and improve confidence in governance.
Tinubu also commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for driving major infrastructure projects across Abuja. He praised the minister for delivering projects aimed at improving the capital city and meeting the expectations of residents.
The President further called on judicial officers to continue carrying out their responsibilities with fairness, integrity and transparency. He urged them to remain committed to delivering justice in a manner that promotes public trust and strengthens democracy.
Speaking at the event, Wike said the construction of the judges’ quarters demonstrates the government’s determination to support the judiciary through better welfare and improved facilities. He stated that discussions about judicial independence should also include the living and working conditions of judges.
The minister disclosed that the FCT Administration recently completed residential quarters for Court of Appeal Justices and is preparing to commission 22 housing units for judges of the FCT High Court on July 7.
He added that work has also commenced on accommodation projects for judges of the National Industrial Court and members of the Code of Conduct Tribunal, with completion expected by January 2027.
Wike revealed that the Katampe area is being developed into a judicial district with additional facilities, including security infrastructure, to ensure the safety of judges and their families. He also urged beneficiaries of the housing estate to properly maintain the facilities.
Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, welcomed the development, describing it as a major step toward addressing accommodation challenges that judicial officers have faced for many years. He expressed appreciation to the Federal Government and the FCT Administration for taking practical steps to improve the welfare of judges.
Also speaking, Minister of State for the FCT, Mariya Mahmoud, said the project would contribute to a stronger justice system by providing judicial officers with suitable accommodation.
She noted that the housing development reflects the government’s commitment to supporting institutions responsible for the administration of justice and strengthening democratic governance in the country.