President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commissioned the newly completed Court of Appeal Abuja Division Complex in Dakibiyu, describing the facility as a major investment in Nigeria’s justice system and a demonstration of his administration’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions through improved judicial infrastructure.
The inauguration ceremony, held on June 15, 2026, marked another milestone in ongoing efforts to modernize the nation’s judiciary and create an enabling environment for efficient justice delivery. Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, President Tinubu said the project reflects the core objectives of the Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes infrastructure development, institutional reforms and improved public service delivery.
According to the President, the construction of the new Court of Appeal complex was initiated after concerns were raised about the inadequate and congested facilities previously occupied by the Abuja Division of the court. He noted that the new structure was designed to provide a more conducive environment for judges, legal practitioners and court users while enhancing the speed and quality of judicial proceedings.
“When I saw the condition under which judicial officers were working, I directed that a lasting solution be provided. Today, we are witnessing the fulfillment of that commitment,” the President said.
The modern judicial complex features two large courtrooms, eight additional courtrooms, judges’ chambers, conference halls, administrative offices, a library and other supporting facilities designed to improve operational efficiency. The facility is also equipped with digital infrastructure intended to support modern court processes and case management systems.
President Tinubu commended the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and the contractor, Visible Construction Limited, for completing the project within schedule and according to approved standards. He noted that the successful delivery of the complex demonstrates the growing capacity of indigenous firms to execute major infrastructure projects across the country.
The President further emphasized that judicial officers deserve work environments that reflect the importance of their constitutional responsibilities. He said the government would continue investing in infrastructure and reforms aimed at promoting judicial independence, transparency and efficiency.
“The judiciary remains a critical pillar of democracy. Providing modern facilities is not a privilege but a necessary investment in justice and national development,” he said.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Nyesom Wike, said the provision of quality infrastructure for judicial officers is essential for strengthening the administration of justice and supporting the independence of the judiciary.
He explained that the FCTA closely monitored the project from inception to completion to ensure it met required standards and timelines. According to him, the administration also constructed an access road leading to the complex, improving accessibility and encouraging development in the surrounding area.
Wike stressed that infrastructure development requires sustainable funding and urged residents and property owners to fulfill their civic obligations, including the payment of ground rents and other statutory charges.
He noted that revenue generated from such payments enables government to undertake critical projects that benefit residents and institutions across the Federal Capital Territory.
Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, described the commissioning as a significant achievement in the ongoing transformation of Nigeria’s justice sector.
He praised President Tinubu’s administration for implementing reforms aimed at improving the welfare and working conditions of judicial officers. According to him, the government’s recent upward review of judicial remuneration and continued investment in infrastructure demonstrate a commitment to preserving the dignity and independence of the judiciary.
Fagbemi said the new court complex and recently completed residential accommodation for judicial officers reflect a broader vision of building a modern, efficient and well-resourced justice system capable of meeting contemporary challenges.
President of the Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, expressed appreciation to the Federal Government and the FCT Administration for delivering the new judicial complex.
She described the facility as a transformative development that will significantly improve the court’s operational capacity and enhance access to justice.
According to her, the fully digitized courtrooms will allow multiple cases to be heard simultaneously, reducing delays and improving the handling of time-sensitive matters, including election-related cases and constitutional appeals.
Justice Dongban-Mensem noted that a functional judicial environment plays a critical role in ensuring timely and effective justice delivery, adding that the facility would contribute positively to the administration of justice nationwide.
Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, described the project as a symbol of progress and a reflection of the government’s commitment to strengthening public institutions.
She said the complex would serve as a center where fairness, accountability and the rule of law are upheld. Mahmoud also commended the collaborative efforts of the Federal Government and the FCTA in delivering infrastructure that supports democratic governance and national development.
Providing an overview of the project, Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Engr. Richard Yunana Dauda, explained that the Court of Appeal Abuja Division had previously operated from temporary office spaces that limited its capacity.
He said the new facility consists of interconnected five-storey and three-storey structures linked by walkways and equipped with modern amenities to support judicial operations.
The complex includes 10 courtrooms, judges’ suites, conference halls, a library, administrative offices and other essential facilities designed to meet the growing demands of the court.
Dauda expressed confidence that the project would improve operational efficiency and contribute to faster, more effective justice delivery across the country.
Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Lateef Fagbemi and the Executive Secretary, FCDA Engr Richard Yunana Dauda at the commissioning of the completed Court of Appeal building, Abuja Division
Managing Director of Visible Construction Limited, Mr. Lekan Adebiyi, also expressed satisfaction with the successful completion of the project, noting that the company was proud to contribute to strengthening Nigeria’s judicial infrastructure.
The commissioning of the Court of Appeal Abuja Division Complex represents another step toward modernizing Nigeria’s justice system and creating an environment that supports judicial excellence, institutional independence and public confidence in the rule of law.
