President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on state governors and other sub-national authorities across the federation to take greater responsibility for the development of judicial infrastructure and the welfare of judicial officers, stressing that the burden of supporting the judiciary should not rest solely on the Federal Government.

The President made the call on Tuesday during the commissioning of the 10 Court of Appeal Judges’ Quarters in Katampe District, Abuja, a project executed by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) as part of activities marking the third anniversary of his administration.

Represented by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), Tinubu said a well-funded and properly equipped judiciary remains critical to the sustenance of democracy, protection of rights, resolution of disputes and economic development.

According to him, the newly commissioned housing estate represents more than the provision of physical infrastructure, describing it as a practical demonstration of government’s commitment to the welfare, independence, efficiency and dignity of the judiciary.

“Today’s event is much more than the unveiling of physical infrastructure; it is a tangible demonstration of the federal government’s enduring commitment to the welfare, independence, efficiency and dignity of the judiciary.

“The responsibility of supporting the judiciary does not rest solely with the federal government. State governments have a corresponding obligation to ensure that their respective judicial sectors are adequately funded, properly equipped and provided with the infrastructure necessary for effective service delivery,” he said.

Tinubu noted that the housing project was a special intervention by the Federal Government and distinct from the judiciary’s statutory budgetary allocations, which he said had also witnessed significant increases under his administration.

He commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, for the successful execution of the project, describing him as “dependable, hardworking and diligent.”

“The welfare of judicial officers is a strategic investment in the rule of law. When judges are provided with secure accommodation and conducive working environments, the entire nation benefits,” he added.

The President further disclosed that additional parcels of land within the district had already been earmarked for the construction of residential quarters for judges of the National Industrial Court, the Federal High Court, the High Court of the FCT and officials of the Code of Conduct Bureau, suggesting that the area could eventually be designated as a “Judiciary Boulevard.”

In his remarks, Wike challenged governors to emulate the FCT model by investing in federal judicial institutions located within their states, arguing that such courts primarily serve the citizens of the host states.

The former Rivers State governor recalled how, during his tenure, litigants from Rivers had to travel to Bayelsa State to access the National Industrial Court despite the majority of cases originating from Rivers.

He said his administration intervened by constructing court facilities and accommodation for judges, thereby eliminating the hardship faced by litigants.
“Governors must understand that these courts serve their people. If there is a federal judicial division in your state, it is your responsibility to ensure it functions effectively. Waiting for the Federal Government to do everything only slows down development,” he said.

Wike dismissed suggestions that investments in judicial infrastructure amounted to attempts to influence the courts, noting that his administration continued to support the judiciary even after a judicial panel nullified his election as governor.

“Ordinarily, a politician might refuse to help after that. But who loses if we don’t build? The people of the state lose.
“Taking care of these institutions does not cost us more than we can afford, and it directly guarantees the true independence of the judiciary,” he stated.

Earlier, the President of the Court of Appeal described the judges’ quarters as a vital investment in judicial independence and institutional stability.

He said secure and dignified accommodation would protect judicial officers and their families from undue pressures and external interference, while also enhancing the quality of justice delivery.

According to him, the project comes at a significant period in the history of the appellate court as it marks its 50th anniversary, adding that sustained investment in infrastructure, technology and judicial welfare would be necessary to position the judiciary for the next half-century.

The Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Richard Dauda, disclosed that the estate forms part of a broader project involving the construction of 40 judges’ quarters in Katampe District.

He said the contract, awarded in September 2024 to Messrs Details to Dots Development Nigeria Limited, was completed in line with approved specifications.

Dauda explained that the Court of Appeal segment comprises 10 fully furnished five-bedroom duplexes with detached boys’ quarters, alongside an event centre, neighbourhood shop, recreational facilities, asphalt-paved roads, water supply, electricity infrastructure, backup generators and comprehensive security installations.

The commissioning ceremony was attended by justices of the Court of Appeal, Life Benchers, senior judicial officers and top government officials.