FG Flags Off Construction of Residences for Heads of Court in FCT
NICN President Applauds Move, Urges Inclusion of Industrial Court Judges
The Federal Government has officially flagged off the design and construction of residences for Heads of Court in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), marking a major step towards improving the welfare and independence of Nigeria’s judiciary.
The flag-off ceremony, held in Abuja on Monday, was graced by top dignitaries, including the Honourable Minister of the FCT, His Excellency Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, CON, and other key stakeholders in the legal and political spheres.
Delivering a goodwill message at the event, the President of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN), Hon. Justice Benedict Bakwaph Kanyip, PhD, FNIALS, FCTL, FCArb, praised the initiative, describing it as a “commendable and timely step” in the ongoing efforts to enhance judicial independence and operational efficiency.
Justice Kanyip extended appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for approving the project; the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, GCON, for permitting it; and the FCT Minister for spearheading its execution alongside the Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure, and their dedicated team.
“This project goes beyond rhetoric. It is a practical demonstration of support for the judiciary, and such support reinforces public trust in the justice system,” he said.
The NICN President emphasized that safe and secure housing for judicial officers is essential, not just for personal well-being, but also for enabling judges to carry out their constitutional duties without fear or external influence.
Drawing from past experiences, Justice Kanyip recalled the generous donation made by then-Governor Wike during his tenure in Rivers State, where the NICN Port Harcourt Division was given not only a court building but also four residential houses for its judges. That contribution, he noted, has had a lasting impact on the court’s effectiveness in the region.
He also referenced the previous flag-off of 40 judges’ quarters in Katampe District, Abuja, and responded to critics by citing the Supreme Court’s decision in AG Abia State & Ors v. AG Federation, affirming that housing and related benefits form part of the constitutional emoluments due to judicial officers.
“Judicial housing is not a luxury—it is a constitutional guarantee and a key component of judicial independence,” he stressed.
Justice Kanyip also used the platform to remind the FCT Minister of his public commitment, made during last year’s event, to include residences for judges of the National Industrial Court under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Your Excellency informed us that Mr. President had approved that by next year, we should make sure we also provide for the Industrial Court. That year is now, and we urge you to honour that pledge,” he stated.
In closing, the NICN President congratulated the FCT administration on the commencement of the project and expressed confidence in its successful delivery.
“Knowing Your Excellency’s reputation—Abuja is already turning a new face—I have no doubt this project will be completed to the highest standard and in good time,” he said.
The event marks a renewed commitment by the Federal Government to ensure a more independent, secure, and efficient judiciary—starting with the foundational aspect of judicial welfare.
