President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday declared that genuine judicial independence rests on the dignity, welfare and security of judicial officers, stressing that judges cannot effectively dispense justice if their basic comfort and peace of mind are neglected.

The President spoke during the commissioning of 10 newly constructed residential units for judges of the Federal High Court in Katampe District, Abuja.

Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu described the project as more than a housing initiative, saying it was a strategic investment in the integrity of Nigeria’s justice system and democratic governance.

He said the provision of secure and comfortable accommodation for judges would strengthen the judiciary’s capacity to function without undue pressure, manipulation or compromise.

“True judicial independence is built on the dignity of our judicial officers. By providing these state-of-the-art residential quarters, we are ensuring that our Federal High Court judges operate from a place of security, comfort and utmost dignity.

“This project is a deliberate shield against vulnerability and a clear statement that Nigeria values those entrusted with interpreting her laws,” the President said.

According to him, guaranteeing judges a conducive working and living environment is not a privilege but a national necessity.

“We cannot expect our judges to dispense justice without fear or favour if their basic comfort, security and peace of mind are left to chance,” he added.

Tinubu recalled that upon assuming office under the Renewed Hope Agenda, his administration pledged to rebuild public confidence in national institutions, strengthen security and uphold the rule of law.

He said the completion of the judges’ quarters represented a concrete step towards fulfilling that commitment.

“For too long, we have discussed judicial independence in abstract terms. But independent thinking requires an independent and secure environment.

“Today, with the commissioning of these housing units, we are taking a definitive and practical step towards strengthening the foundations of justice in our country,” he stated.

The President urged members of the judiciary to reciprocate the government’s support with a renewed commitment to timely, fair and transparent adjudication of cases.

“The Renewed Hope Agenda is anchored on equity and justice. As we provide the infrastructure to make your lives easier, we ask in return for an unwavering commitment to the swift, fair and transparent dispensation of justice.

“Let these homes be centres of reflection, integrity and honour. Let the judgments that emanate from your minds continue to strengthen the fabric of our democracy,” he said.

Tinubu also commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, describing him as a results-driven public servant whose performance continues to transform the nation’s capital.

“When I assigned Minister Wike the task of helping transform Abuja into a world-class capital city, I was confident in his capacity to deliver. He has not disappointed.

“From rehabilitating critical road infrastructure to ensuring the timely completion of projects such as these judges’ quarters, he has demonstrated that performance remains the only true currency in public service,” the President said.

Earlier, Wike said the successful completion of the project within schedule reflected Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening judicial independence and deepening the rule of law.

He urged beneficiaries to ensure proper maintenance of the facilities and disclosed that the entire section of Katampe District where the quarters are situated has been earmarked for residential accommodation for judges and other senior judicial officers resident in the Federal Capital Territory.

In his remarks, the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, John Tsoho, described the project as a significant milestone in the nation’s democratic development.

Justice Tsoho said the inauguration reaffirmed the country’s recognition of the judiciary as a critical arm of government whose independence must be protected and sustained through tangible support.