President Tinubu approves Owner-Occupier Housing Scheme for FCT judges

The Nigerian President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved an owner-occupier housing scheme for judges in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The Minister of the Nigerian Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike stated this at the inauguration of the construction of Judges’ Quarters at Katampe District of Abuja on Monday.

The quarters, made up of 40 housing units, were for judicial officers of the Court of Appeal, Federal High Court, and FCT High Court.

Wike stated that 70 percent of the project’s budget, which covers furnishing, has been provided, adding that the contractor was expected to hand over the completed project in 15 months.

He explained that the gesture was part of ongoing efforts to improve the welfare of judicial officers in the country, in line with President Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda.

He explained that the President is working tirelessly to ensure the independence of the judiciary, through improved welfare packages and condition of service.

The minister said that another condition of service that was very critical in insulating the judiciary from interference and manipulation by the executive and legislative arms of government was housing.

He said President Tinubu had approved the owner-occupier housing for the judges so they could have their own home at retirement.

“With that, it will be difficult for anybody to manipulate or interfere with their duties. When you have a home, what are you afraid of?

“When you know that salaries and allowances will be paid when you are retired; when you know that your tenure of office is guaranteed, anybody would be firm; anybody would be courageous to do his work or her work,” he said.

He said that the gesture was part of the FCT Administration’s efforts to render services to every Nigerian who comes to FCT to carry out businesses or wants to reside in Abuja.

He added that 20 additional houses would be provided in 2025 to the FCT judiciary and the Industrial Court, so they could also benefit from the renewed hope agenda.

The minister explained that the land, upon which the houses would be built was revoked from Julius Berger for failing to develop it, 20 years after it was allocated to the company.

The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, described the gesture as a significant milestone in the Federal Government and FCT Administration’s continuous efforts to enhance the welfare of judicial officers in the territory.

According to her, the judiciary plays a critical role in safeguarding the rule of law, upholding justice, and protecting the rights of citizens.

“In fulfilling this rule, judicial officers must have the right tools and environments to carry out their duties with independence, impartiality, and integrity.

“Beyond the courtroom, a supportive and conducive living environment is essential to the ability of judicial officers to focus on the heavy responsibilities entrusted to them.

“Judicial officers require peace of mind, security, and comfort in their residences to fully dedicate themselves to the rigorous task of interpreting and applying the law.”

Kekere-Ekun said that the construction of the houses was a practical step towards ensuring that judicial officers were well supported.

She said that the homes would provide a secure and tranquil environment, enabling the judicial officers to perform their duties with greater focus, efficiency, and clarity of mind.

On her part, the FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, said that Wike’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure for the judiciary was invaluable and inspiring.

Mahmoud urged for stakeholders’ support to create a space that reflects the nation’s values and commitment to justice.