Tinubu Approves Housing Scheme For Judges In FCT
President Bola Tinubu has approved an owner-occupier housing scheme for judges in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), according to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. The announcement was made during the groundbreaking ceremony for a 40-unit Judges’ Quarters project in the Katampe District of Abuja on Monday.
The housing units are designated for judicial officers from the Court of Appeal, Federal High Court, and FCT High Court. Wike revealed that 70% of the project’s budget, including furnishing costs, has already been secured, and the contractor is expected to complete the project within 15 months.
This initiative is part of Tinubu’s efforts to enhance the welfare of judicial officers under his Renewed Hope agenda, with a focus on improving the judiciary’s independence through better welfare and working conditions. Wike emphasized that housing plays a crucial role in ensuring the judiciary remains insulated from external interference, stating that the scheme would allow judges to own their homes upon retirement.
“When you have a home, what are you afraid of? When your salaries and allowances are guaranteed in retirement, you can carry out your duties with courage and integrity,” Wike said.
The FCT Administration plans to provide an additional 20 housing units for the FCT judiciary and the Industrial Court by 2025. The land for this project was reclaimed from Julius Berger after the company failed to develop it 20 years after allocation.
Chief Justice of Nigeria, Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, praised the initiative as a significant step in improving judicial officers’ welfare, stressing the importance of providing them with a supportive living environment to enhance their focus and efficiency in upholding justice.
The Minister of State for FCT, Mariya Mahmoud, also commended Wike’s dedication to improving infrastructure for the judiciary and urged all stakeholders to support the initiative in promoting justice and national values.
