Follow Us on Google
From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike has voiced his displeasure with the slow progress of work at the Court of Appeal Office Complex in Abuja, despite acknowledging the high quality of the construction.
During Wednesday’s inspection of judicial infrastructure projects, including the Judges’ Quarters in Katampe and the Appeal Court Complex in the Daki Biyu District, Wike reaffirmed the FCT Administration’s commitment to enhancing judicial facilities to ensure comfortable and dignified working environments for judges.
While the Minister praised the steady progress and standards at the Judges’ Quarters, he was not satisfied with the delays at the Appeal Court project. Originally scheduled for completion in September, the contractors have now requested an extension until December.
Wike expressed doubt that even this extended timeline would be met, emphasising the intensive effort still needed to finish the complex.
Other News
“I don’t think even in this December that they are talking about it is possible. Yes, the work is going on very well, but you know, finishing requires a lot of time… I don’t believe that these people will hand over. I really don’t think so. Probably, they will hand over by January, but that was not what we expected at all,” he stated.
Highlighting the importance of the project, Wike revealed that President Bola Tinubu is deeply invested in improving judicial infrastructure and the welfare of judges. According to the Minister, providing adequate facilities bolsters judges’ confidence and capacity to perform their duties effectively, thus strengthening public trust in the judiciary.
“These are the things that make them have confidence in doing their jobs… in carrying out their assignments, and by so doing, they will command public confidence in the judiciary,” Wike said, underlining the essential role of a well-supported judiciary in sustaining Nigeria’s democracy.
