The directive to build a new Court of Appeal in Abuja has been given to Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Wike disclosed at the opening ceremony of the 2023 All Nigeria Judges’ Conference of the Superior Courts of Record at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja, held on Monday.
This move aligns with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, aimed at ensuring an environment conducive for the delivery of justice without bias, according to Wike.
Wike also stated that Tinubu has directed the establishment of a new Court of Appeal division for the FCT, to be completed within the next 15 months. Additionally, there are plans for the construction of housing for judges of the High Court and Magistrates courts in the capital city.
“We in the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) are dedicated to creating an environment that supports the judiciary in dispensing justice without partiality,” Wike affirmed.
He highlighted ongoing efforts to improve the infrastructure of court facilities and the welfare of judicial officers. Wike emphasized, “The President has mandated the immediate construction of a new Court of Appeal division in Abuja, to be completed in 15 months. He has also instructed the construction of residences for FCT judges and magistrates and allocated new quarters for judges of the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal in the Abuja division.”
Wike commended the role of the National Judicial Institute (NJI) in providing a platform for judges across the country to convene, exchange ideas, and engage in substantial discussions on legal matters.
He added, “This conference is not only highly anticipated by judges in Nigeria but also serves as a platform for them to stay updated on evolving legal issues, share best practices, and collectively strategize on enhancing the administration of justice in Nigeria.”
During his keynote address, the Chief Justice of Nigeria and Chairman of the Board of Governors of the NJI, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, emphasized the strategic nature of the conference, serving the purpose of assessing the current situation and envisioning the future.
