The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has announced that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration will ensure that no judge in the FCT High Court lives in a rented apartment by the end of his first tenure in 2027.
Wike made this statement on Monday during the flag-off of the design and construction of new residences for the Heads of Courts in Abuja, describing the project as a decisive step toward improving the welfare and independence of judicial officers.
According to him, the initiative is part of the President’s vision to strengthen institutional integrity across all arms of government.
He stressed that judges of the FCT High Court, not the Federal High Court or National Industrial Court , will be the primary beneficiaries of the project.
Judges to retire with government-built residences
Wike further revealed that the houses being constructed for the heads of courts will become their personal property upon retirement, following presidential approval.
The FCT Minister added that the Seal of Oaths had been issued in the names of the respective judges to formalise the ownership arrangement. “As they retire, the properties become theirs,” Wike stated, clarifying that the policy is fully backed by President Tinubu.
This marks a continuation of recent judicial infrastructure efforts, including the construction of 40 judges’ quarters in Katampe District and new magistrate courts in Jabi, all designed to elevate the standard of living for judicial officers within the FCT.
Government seeks to strengthen judicial independence
In his remarks, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), praised the initiative as a bold move toward reinforcing judicial independence and curbing corruption within the system.
Fagbemi emphasised that providing secure and befitting accommodation would enhance judges’ personal security, dignity, and operational focus, allowing them to perform their duties without undue pressure or distractions.
He added that the initiative underlines Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to institutional reform, noting that reducing material concerns such as housing will also minimise susceptibility to corrupt practices among judicial officers.
