Tinubu Commissions Appeal Court Complex In Abuja, Says Rule Of Law Must Operate From A Befitting Home

President Bola Tinubu, on Monday, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s judiciary, declaring that the rule of law must be supported by modern infrastructure, improved welfare and institutional reforms capable of deepening democracy and enhancing access to justice.

Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the commissioning of the Court of Appeal Abuja Division Building Complex in Dakibiyu, Abuja, Tinubu described the new edifice as a landmark achievement under the Renewed Hope Agenda and a clear demonstration of government’s determination to restore the dignity of key democratic institutions.

The building has two big courtrooms, eight small courtrooms, library, 10 judges’ suites, three conference halls, administrative offices with ancillary facilities, among others.

“This is not just a building. This is a statement. A statement that under the Renewed Hope Agenda, the rule of law will have a befitting home,” the President said.

He recalled that the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal had for years operated from a cramped temporary facility, a situation he described as unacceptable for an institution entrusted with dispensing justice.

“A nation that seeks justice must respect the temple of justice. When I visited and saw the condition, I gave a simple instruction: fix it. Today, we have fixed it,” he stated.

Tinubu praised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, for delivering the project within record time, describing him as “Mr. Project.”

“When I appointed you as Minister of the FCT, I knew you would not sleep. You promised 16 months. You delivered in record time. No excuses. No variation. Just results. Nigerians can see the difference,” he said.

According to the President, the world-class complex, which comprises two large courtrooms, eight smaller courtrooms and modern support facilities, would accelerate the administration of justice, reduce congestion in correctional centres and strengthen democratic governance.

“This is how you honour the judiciary. This is how you strengthen democracy,” he added.

Tinubu noted that the project aligns with the administration’s commitment to judicial reforms, increased funding for the judiciary and the promotion of a just, rule-based society. He also commended the FCT Administration for building additional courts, constructing residences for judicial officers, digitising judicial processes and supporting legal education.

Addressing judicial officers, the President acknowledged the enormous responsibilities borne by the Court of Appeal, particularly in election petitions and constitutional matters.

“You deserve an environment that matches the weight of your responsibility. This complex is not a favour. It is your right. And we will do more,” he assured.

He further commended Visible Construction Limited for delivering the project, saying the accomplishment demonstrated the capacity of indigenous firms to execute world-class infrastructure projects.

“This magnificent edifice shows that local companies have the capacity to deliver high-quality projects on time. This is the Nigeria we are building,” he said.

The President urged judges and justices to ensure justice remains swift, fair and blind to status, ethnicity or wealth.

“Let justice be swift. Let it be fair. Let it be blind to status, tribe or purse. Let the common man feel that this court is truly his last hope,” he stated.

Earlier, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), described the commissioning as a historic moment for Nigeria’s judiciary and democracy, noting that it coincided with the 50th anniversary of the Court of Appeal.

“This is not merely the unveiling of a significant judicial edifice. It is a powerful statement of this administration’s unwavering commitment to the rule of law, judicial independence and the strengthening of institutions that safeguard our constitutional democracy,” he said.

Fagbemi said President Tinubu had demonstrated unprecedented support for the judiciary through concrete reforms, investments and welfare improvements.