Wike says Tinubu keeps his promises, flags off Judges’ Housing Project in Abuja

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Monday declared that President Bola Tinubu is a leader who does not make promises and fail.

Wike made the remark while flagging off the design and construction of residences for the heads of courts — including the President of the Court of Appeal, the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, the Chief Judge of the FCT, and the President of the Industrial Court — in Abuja.

The minister stated that the judges had already been assigned the houses with Certificates of Occupancy (C of Os), adding that the residences would become theirs upon retirement.

Wike said, “Let me say again, Bola Ahmed Tinubu does not make promises and fail, and as his agent, I want to assure you that we will provide those houses for you, our judges. So, don’t bother to remind me anywhere you see me — take it to the bank and cash from it.”

He emphasized that he had no record of abandoning projects, assuring that the construction would be completed within 12 months. He also instructed the contractors to meet the delivery timeline.

“I have no history of abandoning projects. No one else will complete this project for us; we are going to complete it,” Wike said, noting that the initiative was a sign of Tinubu’s commitment to the judiciary.

The minister also praised the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), for his support to the FCT Administration, revealing that the digitalisation of the FCT High Court has been included in the 2025 budget.

“Attorney-General, on behalf of the FCT, we sincerely thank you. Your support cannot be quantified. Through you, we have included the digitalisation of the FCT courts in the 2025 budget, and the council has been summoned to commence work immediately,” he said.

Recalling Tinubu’s time as governor of Lagos State, Wike added that his efforts to improve judicial welfare then were a reflection of his leadership style, which continues now as President.

In his remarks, the President of the National Industrial Court, Justice Benedict Bakwaph Kanyip, commended President Tinubu for approving the project and appreciated Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, for her support.

Kanyip described the project as a “significant and commendable milestone” that demonstrates the administration’s commitment to judicial welfare and independence.

“Providing safe, comfortable, and secure residences is crucial for the judiciary to function effectively without fear or external influence. This housing initiative will enhance the well-being of judges and improve focus and efficiency,” Kanyip said.

Also speaking, the Chief Judge of the FCT High Court, Justice Hussein Baba Yusuf, described the construction as a landmark achievement that reinforces justice as a key component of national development.

He praised Wike for prioritising judicial welfare and for his massive infrastructural developments across the FCT.

“The issue of welfare of judges has always been on the mind of the minister. As Governor of Rivers State, he prioritised the judiciary, and since assuming office in the FCT, his interventions have been remarkable. He has demonstrated capacity and understanding of the job,” Baba Yusuf said.

He added that the decision to build purpose-designed residences for heads of courts reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening the judiciary through welfare, security, and independence — essential foundations for a credible justice system.