ABUJA – The Federal Government has reaffirmed its dedication to safeguarding the nation’s judiciary from manipulation and external influence, as part of its broader commitment to judicial independence.
Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr Nyesom Wike, disclosed this on Monday in Abuja during the foundation laying ceremony for the construction of Judges’ Quarters in the Katampe District.
The housing project, set to accommodate 40 judges, will be completed within 15 months. Wike emphasized that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is focused on enhancing the welfare of judicial officers, seeing their independence as a key priority for the administration.
Wike explained that the President has been particularly focused on two crucial aspects that guarantee judicial independence: the tenure of judicial officers and their conditions of service.
He referenced recent constitutional amendments enabling judges to retire at the age of 70, highlighting that this change ensures the judiciary operates without undue pressure.
“Mr. President has also said that the conditions of service are critical to the independence of the judiciary. If you want to insulate the Judiciary from manipulation, from interference by the Legislature or Executive, what’s important is their remuneration,” Wike noted.
He further revealed that one of Tinubu’s earliest acts in 2024 was to adjust the salaries and allowances of judicial officers, a move intended to offer hope and security to those serving in the judiciary.
Wike stressed that housing is another essential aspect of securing the judiciary’s independence. He announced that the new housing initiative is designed to offer judges a sense of security, ensuring they have a home to retire to, which would bolster their courage and integrity while serving. “When you have a home and know that your salaries and allowances will be paid even after retirement, you can be firm and courageous in your work,” Wike added.
Minister of State for FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, also expressed her gratitude to key stakeholders, including Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, Senate President Senator Godswill Akpabio, and Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, for their unwavering support in ensuring the success of the initiative. Mahmoud reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to the continuous improvement of conditions for judicial officers.
The construction of the Judges’ Quarters marks a significant step in the Federal Government’s practical demonstration of its commitment to judicial independence, ensuring that judicial officers are well-equipped to carry out their duties without fear or favor.
In her remarks, the CJN, Hon. Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, hailed the project as a significant milestone in the Federal Government’s effort to enhance the welfare of judicial officers in the FCT. She highlighted the critical role the judiciary plays in safeguarding the rule of law and protecting citizens’ rights.
“This project is for judicial officers of the Court of Appeal, the Federal High Court, and the FCT High Court. It is indeed a very significant milestone in the continuous effort of the Federal Government and the FCT Administration to enhance the welfare of judicial officers in the Federal Capital Territory,” she said.
Justice Kekere-Ekun stressed that beyond the courtroom, judicial officers require supportive and conducive living environments to carry out their duties with independence and integrity. “A supportive and conducive living environment is essential to the ability to focus on the heavy responsibilities entrusted to them,” she added.
She further remarked that the construction of these residences goes beyond addressing the basic need for housing it reflects an understanding that the mental and emotional well-being of judicial officers is directly tied to their living conditions. “These homes will provide a secure and tranquil environment, enabling judicial officers to perform their duties with greater focus, efficiency, and clarity of mind,” the CJN noted.
In closing, Justice Kekere-Ekun praised the FCT Administration and the Federal Government’s “renewed hope agenda,” under the leadership of President Tinubu, for prioritizing the welfare of judicial officers. She expressed her confidence in the project’s timely completion, noting that it would serve as a model for future initiatives aimed at empowering the judiciary.
As the project was officially flagged off, the CJN expressed gratitude to all who contributed to making the housing project a reality, describing it as a significant step in creating an enabling environment for the judiciary to discharge its constitutional duties effectively. “I am confident that this project will be executed to the highest standards and completed within the expected timeframe,” she concluded.
Minister of State for FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, also expressed her gratitude to key stakeholders, including Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, Senate President Senator Godswill Akpabio, and Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Hon. Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, for their unwavering support in ensuring the success of the initiative.
Mahmoud reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to the continuous improvement of conditions for judicial officers.
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