President Bola Tinubu has said his administration’s provision of housing for judicial officers is aimed at reinforcing the independence of the judiciary and strengthening a critical pillar of Nigeria’s democracy.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu stated this on Wednesday during the inauguration of 10 housing units for judges of the Federal High Court at the newly constructed Judges’ Quarters in Katampe District, Abuja.
According to the President, the project is a deliberate effort to protect judicial officers from vulnerability and demonstrate the nation’s commitment to those who interpret its laws.
“We are here not just to commission buildings but to fortify a vital pillar of our democracy – the judiciary,” he said.
Tinubu said the provision of the housing units aligns with the objectives of the Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to restore institutional trust, strengthen the rule of law and improve governance.
He noted that judicial independence goes beyond constitutional guarantees and requires a secure and conducive environment for judges to discharge their duties.
“You cannot expect judges to dispense justice without fear or favour when their basic comfort, security and peace of mind are left to chance.
“True judicial independence is rooted in the dignity of our judicial officers. By providing these residential quarters, we are ensuring that our Federal High Court judges operate from a place of security, comfort and stability,” he said.
The President urged judicial officers to remain committed to the fair, transparent and timely dispensation of justice.
He added that his administration’s reforms across different sectors require patience but assured Nigerians that efforts would continue until all sectors reflect the country’s true potential.
Tinubu also commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for delivering the project and other infrastructure initiatives in Abuja.
“When I gave Wike the assignment to transform Abuja into a world-class city, I knew his capacity to deliver. You have not disappointed me,” he said.
In his remarks, Wike described the project as part of Tinubu’s commitment to promoting an independent judiciary and improving the welfare of judicial officers.
He disclosed that the area had been designated as a Judges’ Zone and said housing projects for judicial officers would continue.
“Yesterday, we inaugurated the Court of Appeal Judges’ Quarters. Today, we are here for the Federal High Court and in July, we will inaugurate the housing units for the FCT High Court,” he said.
Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, described the project as a major step toward addressing the long-standing accommodation challenges facing judges.
He commended Tinubu and Wike for prioritising the welfare of judicial officers despite criticism from some quarters.
“It is deeply encouraging and gives immense hope to the judiciary and the nation at large to see that the welfare of career professionals is being taken seriously,” Tsoho said.
Earlier, the acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority, Richard Dauda, said the project was awarded in September 2024 for the design and construction of 40 judges’ quarters in Katampe District.
According to him, the project includes the construction of fully furnished five-bedroom duplexes with boys’ quarters and other supporting facilities.