President Bola Tinubu has said the provision of residential accommodation for judicial officers is part of efforts by his administration to strengthen the independence of the judiciary and reinforce democratic governance in Nigeria.
Tinubu made the remark 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.
The President was represented at the event by Vice President Kashim Shettima.
According to him, the housing project reflects the commitment of the Federal Government to protecting the judiciary and creating conditions that enable judges to discharge their duties without undue pressure or distractions.
He said the initiative aligns with the objectives of the Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to rebuild public trust in institutions, uphold the rule of law and strengthen democratic governance.
“We are here not just to commission buildings but to fortify a vital pillar of our democracy – the judiciary,” Tinubu said.
He described the project as a practical demonstration of government’s resolve to support the judicial arm of government, noting that judicial independence goes beyond constitutional provisions and requires a secure and conducive working environment.
The President stated that judges cannot be expected to dispense justice effectively when their welfare, safety and peace of mind are uncertain, adding that the new accommodation would provide the stability needed for them to carry out their responsibilities.
He urged members of the bench to remain committed to delivering justice fairly, transparently and without delay, stressing that the administration’s investment in judicial infrastructure was aimed at strengthening the justice system.
Tinubu also said his administration remained focused on reforms across critical sectors, including the economy, infrastructure, security and justice, adding that although some of the reforms require patience, positive results were beginning to emerge.
The President commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, for overseeing the completion of the project, describing him as committed to transforming Abuja through quality infrastructure development.
He praised Wike’s efforts in upgrading road networks and delivering key projects within schedule, saying performance remains the most important measure of public service.
Speaking at the event, Wike said the housing project was part of President Tinubu’s broader commitment to ensuring the independence and welfare of judicial officers.
He noted that the FCT Administration had inaugurated residential quarters for Court of Appeal judges a day earlier and would commission housing units for judges of the FCT High Court in July.
The minister further disclosed that the entire area had been designated a Judges’ Zone and that the necessary administrative processes had been initiated to formalise the designation.
Also speaking, the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, John Tsoho, said inadequate accommodation for judges had remained a major challenge for decades.
Tsoho welcomed the intervention, describing it as a significant step toward addressing the welfare needs of judicial officers and strengthening the administration of justice in the country.
