By 2027, No FCT Judge Will Live in Rented Apartment — Wike Vows

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has pledged to end the long-standing challenge of judges residing in rented apartments in Abuja by 2027, as part of wide-ranging reforms to enhance the judiciary’s welfare and efficiency.

Speaking on Monday during the flag-off ceremony for official residences for Heads of Courts in the FCT, Wike described the project as one of the most significant milestones under the Tinubu administration’s infrastructure agenda.

“We cannot afford to continue to see judges living in rented houses, sometimes squatting with relatives. By the end of President Tinubu’s first tenure, no judge of the FCT High Court will be living in rented quarters,” the minister declared.

Wike announced that the initiative would deliver 10 duplexes each for the Court of Appeal and Federal High Court, as well as 20 duplexes for the FCT High Court.

He emphasized that the residences would become personal property of the judges upon retirement, in line with President Tinubu’s new policy.

“This is a policy of Mr President. When judges retire, they must go home with their houses. Nobody will reclaim them. That is the true position,” he stated.

The minister further disclosed that the digitization of the FCT High Court has been included in the 2025 budget, with immediate steps underway to implement it.

“I have directed that the digitization project commences without delay. Our judges deserve the best working environment to serve justice effectively,” Wike added, commending the Attorney General of the Federation for his support.

Wike also issued a stern warning to contractors against delays or cost variations, insisting that the residential projects must be completed within 12 months and handed over to the judiciary.

Earlier, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, the Minister of State for the FCT, described the initiative as a major step toward strengthening the justice system and restoring dignity to judicial officers.

“This is about honour, dignity, and institutional pride — providing befitting residences for our Heads of Courts whose wisdom upholds the rule of law,” she said, praising President Tinubu’s vision and Wike’s leadership.

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