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Vice President Kashim Shettima has said the provision of housing for judges reflects Nigeria’s commitment to judicial independence and its appreciation of those who interpret the nation’s laws.
Shettima made the remarks during the commissioning of 10 residential accommodation units for judges of the High Court in Abuja, where he said the project reflects the Nigerian Government’s commitment to building stronger institutions under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to the Vice President, the housing project goes beyond infrastructure and represents an investment in one of the country’s most important democratic institutions.
“I’m immensely proud to stand before you today in the Katampe District of the Federal Capital Territory to commission these recently completed 10 residential accommodations for judges of the High Court,” he said.
“The initiative for which we are gathered here today to celebrate is a testament to what vision, political will, and rigorous execution can achieve.”
He added that the project was designed to strengthen the judiciary and reinforce public confidence in democratic institutions.
“We are here not just to commission buildings but to fortify a vital pillar of our democracy, the judiciary,” Shettima stated.
The Vice President said the administration’s commitment to institutional reforms includes ensuring that judicial officers have the environment necessary to discharge their responsibilities without undue pressure or distractions.
“When we embarked on the Renewed Hope Agenda, we made a sacred covenant with the Nigerian people. We promised to build institutional trust, secure our nation, and ensure that the rule of law is neither compromised nor delayed. Today, with the official commissioning of these 10 housing units for judges of the High Court, we are taking a definitive, physical step towards fulfilling that promise,” he said.
He noted that discussions about judicial independence must be matched with concrete actions.
“For too long, we have talked about the independence of the judiciary in abstract terms,” Shettima said. “But independent thought requires an independent and secure environment. You cannot expect judges to dispense justice without fear or favour if their basic comfort, security, and peace of mind are left to chance.”
Emphasising the significance of the housing project, the Vice President said it serves as both protection and recognition for members of the judiciary.
“True judicial independence is built on the dignity of our judicial offices,” he said.
“By providing this set of residential quarters, we are ensuring that our High Court judges operate from a place of security, comfort, and utmost dignity.”
Describing the development as a symbol of national appreciation for the judiciary, Shettima added that the project was a deliberate shield against vulnerability.
“This project is a deliberate shield against vulnerability, a statement that Nigeria values those who interpret her laws,”he said.
The Vice President also commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for delivering key infrastructure projects across Abuja.
“When I gave Minister Nyesom Wike the assignment to transform Abuja into a world-class city, I knew his capacity to deliver. Mr. Nyesom Wike, you have not disappointed me.”
Vice President Kashim Shettima says the new 10 residential quarters in Abuja for Federal High Court judges… pic.twitter.com/wdSRkWXVjK
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“At this juncture, I must pause to salute the tireless, dynamic, and unapologetically focused Honourable Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike,” he said.
According to Shettima, Wike has demonstrated a strong commitment to transforming the nation’s capital through infrastructure development.
“When I gave Minister Nyesom Wike the assignment to transform Abuja into a world-class city, I knew his capacity to deliver,” he said, adding, “You have not disappointed me.”
He further praised the minister’s performance, citing improvements in road infrastructure and the completion of the judges’ quarters.
“From fixing critical road networks to ensuring the timely completion of projects like these judges’ quarters, you have proven that performance is the only currency that matters in public service,” the Vice President stated.
Shettima also applauded the judiciary for its cooperation with the executive arm of government, describing the relationship as a model of collaboration in the public interest.
“I also extend my deep appreciation to the leadership of the judiciary,” he said.
“The collaboration between the executive and the judiciary under this administration remains a proud example of intergovernmental harmony for the collective good of our people.”
