By Stanley Onyekwere
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commissioned a newly completed 10-unit Court of Appeal Judges’ Quarters in Katampe District, Abuja, describing the project as a strategic investment in the rule of law and democratic governance.
Tinubu, who was represented by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, at official commissioning Tuesday, emphasized that a functional justice system requires robust infrastructure and support systems alongside sound laws.
He noted that the housing estate was funded as a special federal intervention—completely distinct from the judiciary’s statutory budgetary allocations—and launched to mark the third anniversary of the administration.
“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,”President Tinubu stated.
The President revealed that additional land in Katampe District has been earmarked for judges of the National Industrial Court, the Code of Conduct Bureau, the Federal High Court, and the FCT High Court.
Tinubu challenged state governments to emulate the Federal Government by investing heavily in their local judicial sectors.
Earlier in his remarks, FCT Minister Barr. Nyesom Wike, dismissed critics who claim that executive-funded infrastructure compromises judicial impartiality, arguing instead that proper welfare directly guarantees true independence.
Wike urged state governors to take greater responsibility for federal courts situated within their states, noting that these courts directly serve local citizens.
Recalling his time as Governor of Rivers State, Wike highlighted how providing infrastructure for the National Industrial Court in Port Harcourt saved local litigants from traveling to neighboring Bayelsa State.
Welcoming the development, the President of the Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, called the quarters a major milestone.
She noted that secure housing provides an essential, contemplative environment that protects judges from undue influence and security threats.
“Building a judiciary fit for the next 50 years requires sustained investment in modern facilities, technological advancement, and judicial welfare,” Justice Dongban-Mensem said.
The estate features 10 fully furnished 5-bedroom duplexes with detached boys’ quarters, dedicated community spaces, and critical utility infrastructure.
Also It represents the latest development in a 40-unit housing scheme managed by the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), following a contract awarded in September 2024.
Furthermore, the commissioning follows just one day after the inauguration of the new Court of Appeal complex in Abuja, signaling an aggressive, renewed federal focus on judicial infrastructure.
