The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, revealed a recent presidential directive to establish a new Court of Appeal in Abuja. This announcement came during the opening ceremony of the 2023 All Nigeria Judges’ Conference at the National Judicial Institute in Abuja on Monday.
The directive, aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, aims to create an environment conducive to impartial and fearless justice delivery. Wike emphasized Tinubu’s commitment to enhancing the judiciary’s operational surroundings.
As part of these efforts, the President has instructed the establishment of a new Court of Appeal division in the FCT, scheduled for completion within the next 15 months. Additionally, plans include the construction of residences for High Court judges and magistrates in Abuja.
He said, “In Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), we are committed to fostering an environment that supports the judiciary in dispensing justice without fear or favour.
“We recognise the importance of a well-equipped and adequate staff force as well as the need for continuous education to ensure that our judges are abreast of the latest developments in jurisprudence.
“I am pleased to report that efforts are underway to enhance the infrastructure of our court facilities, including the welfare of judicial officers.
“The President has directed that we should, with immediate effect, construct a new Court of Appeal division of Abuja and that must be completed in 15 months.
“And the President also directed that we should construct houses for the FCT judges and magistrates in Abuja and also directed that judges of the Federal High Court in Abuja and the Court of Appeal in Abuja division must be given new quarters.”