Wike Launches Judicial Housing Initiative to End Rented Accommodation for FCT Judges

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has announced that by the end of President Bola Tinubu’s first term in office, all judges of the FCT High Court will be provided with official residences, effectively ending the long-standing practice of judicial officers living in rented apartments.

Speaking on Monday during the flag-off of the design and construction of official residences for the Heads of Courts of the FCT, Wike said the initiative aligns with the President’s directive to prioritize the welfare and working conditions of judicial officers in the capital.

“Before the end of Mr President’s first tenure, no judge of the FCT High Court will be living in a rented apartment,” Wike stated. “This commitment applies strictly to judges of the FCT High Court, not the Federal High Court or National Industrial Court.

Enhancing Judicial Infrastructure

The housing initiative forms part of broader reforms aimed at strengthening the infrastructure of the judiciary within the FCT.
According to Wike, the project complements ongoing developments such as the construction of new magistrate courts in Jabi, launched in September 2025, and the 40-unit judges’ quarters currently under development in Katampe District, whose foundation was laid in November 2024.

He added that the government’s approach is not limited to tenure-based benefits. Under the policy, the heads of courts, including the President of the Court of Appeal, Chief Judges of the Federal and FCT High Courts, and the Judge of the National Industrial Court, will retain ownership of the residences upon retirement.

“This is a deliberate policy to honour the service of judicial leaders and preserve the dignity of the judiciary,” Wike said. “When these heads of courts retire, the properties will belong to them, with the full approval of the President.”

Boosting Judicial Independence and Integrity

The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), who was present at the flag-off, described the initiative as a milestone in advancing judicial independence and institutional integrity.

“Providing secure and befitting accommodation for heads of court enhances their personal security, operational independence, and the institutional dignity of the judiciary,” Fagbemi said. “It also reduces vulnerability to corruption since welfare concerns like housing are already addressed.”

Fagbemi commended both President Tinubu and Minister Wike for demonstrating a “practical commitment to judicial welfare,” noting that the infrastructure projects would have long-term benefits for governance and justice delivery in the capital.

A Step Toward Institutional Stability

The housing policy for judges marks a significant shift in the government’s approach to judicial welfare, moving from short-term allowances to long-term asset provision. Analysts say this model could improve the living standards of judicial officers and reduce the administrative strain associated with accommodation logistics.

By prioritizing housing and welfare for the judiciary, the FCT Administration is setting a precedent for other states to replicate. The move also underscores a broader federal effort to strengthen the justice system, promote institutional stability, and ensure transparent governance through infrastructural investment.

Conclusion

As construction begins, the FCT’s judicial housing initiative signals a renewed commitment to the independence and welfare of the judiciary. By 2027, if completed as planned, the programme will not only eliminate the need for judges to rent apartments but will also serve as a tangible expression of Nigeria’s commitment to improving governance through institutional respect and infrastructural development.