The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has assured that by the end of President Bola Tinubu’s first term in office, no judge serving in the FCT will be living in a rented apartment.
Wike gave the assurance on Monday during the flag-off ceremony for the design and construction of official residences for the Heads of Courts in the FCT.
According to him, the Tinubu administration is determined to end the long-standing challenge of inadequate housing for judicial officers in the nation’s capital.
“Let me also say what Mr President has done for the FCT. Before the end of his first tenure, no judge of the FCT will be living in a rented quarter. I said before the first tenure ends, no judge of the FCT High Court— I didn’t say Federal High Court or National Industrial Court—will be staying in a rented quarter,” Wike stated.
The housing project follows earlier initiatives, including the flag-off of new magistrate courts in Jabi in September 2025 and the construction of 40 judges’ quarters in Katampe District, which began in November 2024.
Wike clarified that providing infrastructure for the judiciary does not amount to executive interference, stressing that the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) is responsible for building all public structures in the FCT.
He further disclosed that, with the President’s approval, the new houses will become permanent retirement homes for the current Heads of Courts once they leave office.
“Let me make it clear—what we are doing today is not just for the heads of courts while in office. When they retire, the properties become their own. That is the approval of Mr President. The Seal of Oaths has been issued in their names,” the minister said.
Wike added that this new policy ensures that the judiciary receives lasting benefits that reflect the administration’s respect for judicial independence and welfare.
In his remarks, the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), commended the initiative, saying it will enhance the dignity and independence of the judiciary.
“The provision of secure and befitting accommodation for Heads of Courts will enhance operational independence, personal security, and institutional dignity, enabling judicial officers to discharge their duties with greater focus and authority,” Fagbemi said.
He added that the initiative will also help curb corruption in the judiciary.
“The issue of corruption will be reduced to the barest minimum because, even if you accuse the judiciary of corruption, what would they use the money for? Accommodation is already guaranteed,” he remarked.
Fagbemi also praised President Tinubu and Minister Wike for prioritizing judicial reforms, infrastructural development, and institutional strengthening.
