The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the welfare of judicial officers, stressing that decent and secure accommodation is essential for the effective administration of justice.
Wike stated this while speaking at an official judicial event, where he noted that providing comfortable and secure housing enables judges to concentrate fully on the timely and efficient dispensation of justice, without the distractions associated with inadequate living conditions.
He expressed optimism that within the 2025/2026 Legal Year, the FCT Administration would intensify efforts to complete critical judicial infrastructure projects. According to him, priority would be given to the timely completion of the new residential quarters for Heads of Courts and the Jabi Magistrate Court Complex to ensure prompt utilisation.
The Minister further disclosed plans to construct additional residential houses for judges of the FCT High Court in order to address existing housing shortages and ensure that all judicial officers are adequately accommodated.
Barrister Wike also reiterated the FCT Administration’s commitment to continued collaboration with FCT-based judicial institutions to advance the digitisation of court proceedings and registries. He explained that the initiative is aimed at improving efficiency, reducing reliance on manual processes and accelerating the delivery of justice.
In her remarks, the President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, commended the Minister for his consistent support for the judiciary, both during his tenure as Governor of Rivers State and in his current role as FCT Minister.
She particularly lauded the construction of safe and secure owner-occupier residences for judicial officers, describing housing as a critical component of welfare. “There is nothing as important as having a roof over your head at any stage in life,” she said.
Justice Dongban-Mensem also advocated the extension of housing provisions to all categories of judges, not only Heads of Courts. She cited the recent murder of a retired judge in Delta State as a stark reminder of the security risks faced by judicial officers, underscoring the importance of providing safe residential environments during and after their service to the nation.
The event highlighted ongoing efforts by the FCT Administration to improve judicial welfare, infrastructure and institutional efficiency as part of broader reforms aimed at strengthening the justice system.
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