President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said that true judicial independence is rooted in the dignity, welfare, and security of judicial officers, stressing that a well-supported judiciary remains central to good governance and the rule of law in Nigeria.
Speaking on Wednesday at the commissioning of 10 housing units for judges of the Federal High Court in Katampe District, Abuja, the President, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, said his administration is committed to strengthening institutions through targeted reforms and infrastructure development.
He described the newly built residential quarters as more than physical structures, but as part of efforts to reinforce the foundation of Nigeria’s democracy.
“True judicial independence is built on the dignity of our judicial officers. By providing these state-of-the-art residential quarters, we are ensuring that our Federal High Court Judges operate from a place of security, comfort, and utmost dignity,” Tinubu said.
He added that the project was designed to protect judicial officers from vulnerability and ensure they are able to discharge their duties without undue pressure or compromise.
“This project is a deliberate shield against vulnerability, a statement that Nigeria values those who interpret her laws,” he said.
The President noted that his administration’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” is anchored on rebuilding institutional trust, strengthening the justice system, and ensuring that the rule of law is upheld without delay or interference.
According to him, judicial independence must go beyond rhetoric and be supported by practical measures that guarantee the safety and welfare of judges.
“For too long, we have talked about the independence of the judiciary in abstract terms. But independent thought requires an independent and secure environment,” he said.
Tinubu also urged judges to ensure swift and transparent delivery of justice, stating that the nation expects greater efficiency from the judiciary as government continues to improve working conditions.
“As we provide the infrastructure to make your lives easier, we ask in return for an unwavering commitment to the swift, fair, and transparent dispensation of justice,” he added.
He commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, for his performance in delivering infrastructure projects, describing him as committed and results-oriented.
“When I gave Minister Wike the assignment to transform Abuja into a world-class capital city, I knew his capacity for delivery. Nyesom Wike, you have not disappointed,” Tinubu said.
He cited ongoing road projects and timely completion of infrastructure within the capital as evidence of effective public service delivery.
Earlier, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike said the completion of the judges’ quarters reflects the administration’s commitment to judicial independence and the strengthening of the rule of law.
He also urged beneficiaries to ensure proper maintenance of the facilities, noting that the Katampe District has been designated for residential accommodation for judges and senior judiciary officials in Abuja.
The Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, described the project as a reaffirmation of national commitment to judicial independence and improved welfare for judicial officers.
