“The President has given me the mandate” — Wike warns Judges

During the inauguration of the 2023 All Nigeria Judges’ Conference of the Superior Courts of Record at the National Judicial Institute in Abuja on Monday, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, disclosed that he had received a presidential directive to initiate the construction of a new Court of Appeal in Abuja.

The directive, according to Wike, aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, aimed at bolstering the judiciary’s operations within an environment conducive to fair and impartial justice delivery.

Addressing attendees, Wike highlighted the specifics of the presidential directive, indicating that the development of a new Court of Appeal division for the FCT would be undertaken, with an ambitious completion timeline set at 15 months.

Additionally, the directive extends to the construction of residences for judges of the High Court and Magistrates courts in the capital city.

Wike emphasized the FCT Administration’s commitment to fostering an environment supportive of the judiciary’s function, recognizing the significance of adequately equipped facilities and a well-supported judicial workforce.

He also underscored the necessity for ongoing education to keep judges informed about the latest developments in jurisprudence.

He stated, “Efforts are underway to enhance the infrastructure of our court facilities, including the welfare of judicial officers.”

Elaborating further, Wike relayed the President’s instructions regarding the construction of new quarters for judges of the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal in Abuja division, emphasizing the urgency and importance of these developments in bolstering the judiciary’s efficiency and independence.