The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has expressed dissatisfaction with the slow progress of work at the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal complex in Dakibiyu, Jabi District.
Speaking after an inspection tour on Monday, September 22, 2025, Wike voiced concerns that the project may not be completed in time for the Court of Appeal’s 2025 Legal Year celebration scheduled for September.
“I’m afraid, I’m not too satisfied. From what I have seen, I don’t think the contractor will meet up,” the Minister told reporters.
Wike reminded stakeholders that a commitment had earlier been made to deliver the project before the legal year ceremony. While expressing disappointment at the pace of work, he insisted that the complex would still be completed this year.
“It will not exceed this year. I have directed that the contractor be summoned so we can discuss the matter further. This is one project that is dear to Mr President, and we cannot afford to fail,” he said.
The project is a key component of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at strengthening judicial infrastructure nationwide.
In contrast, the Minister expressed satisfaction with the Judges’ Quarters project in Katampe District. The project comprises 40 five-bedroom duplexes designed for the Justices of the Federal High Court, the FCT High Court, and the Court of Appeal.
Wike praised the speed of construction, noting that the project is on track for its January 2026 completion date and may even be delivered ahead of schedule.
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“We are impressed with the progress. The handover date is January 2026, but the way things are going, they may finish before then,” he said.
The Minister emphasized that the initiative reflects President Tinubu’s determination to improve the welfare of judges and strengthen their independence.
“This is the initiative of Mr President, who has never hidden his intention to provide welfare and make the judiciary independent. Judges should not live as tenants or in unsafe neighbourhoods. They deserve secure, well-furnished homes to carry out their duties effectively,” Wike stressed.
According to him, the accommodation project ensures that judges can live with dignity, free from external influences, and concentrate fully on dispensing justice.
The inspection visit highlights both the challenges and successes in the FCT’s judicial infrastructure program. While the Court of Appeal project lags behind schedule, the Judges’ Quarters is progressing smoothly, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to delivering on promises.
By addressing delays firmly and recognising positive progress, the FCT Minister has reassured stakeholders that no project will be abandoned. Both projects symbolise the federal government’s commitment to providing modern facilities that uphold justice, accountability, and national development.
