The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) has stated that the Federal Government’s provision of housing gifts to judges will significantly improve their performance and judicial efficiency.
Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), stated that constructing 40 Judges’ Quarters in Abuja’s Katampe District will enhance the performance of judicial officers within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
During the project’s launch ceremony on Monday, the Chief Justice of Nigeria emphasized that this initiative represents a crucial step forward in the government’s ongoing efforts to improve the welfare of judicial officers in the Federal Capital Territory.
She mentioned that outside the courtroom, having a supportive and conducive living environment is crucial for them to concentrate on the significant responsibilities they carry.
Justice Kekere-Ekun emphasized that judges require peace of mind to function effectively and carry out their responsibilities with enhanced concentration.
For judicial officers to fully commit to the demanding task of interpreting and applying the law, they need their residences to provide peace of mind, security, and comfort.
Building these residences is a practical measure to ensure judicial officers receive adequate support. It acknowledges that their mental well-being is directly linked to their living conditions.
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These homes will offer a safe and peaceful setting, allowing judicial officers to carry out their responsibilities with enhanced focus, efficiency, and mental clarity.
She said, “Judicial officers are better able to perform their duties when their well-being is prioritized and they have conducive working conditions.”
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, President of the Court of Appeal of Nigeria.
Wike emphasized the importance of providing judicial officers with a comprehensive welfare package, which should include housing.
The minister stated that having the assurance of housing would enable judges to deliver judgments with confidence and perform their duties courageously.
He stated that 70% of the project’s funds were released following its approval by the Federal Executive Council last month. He mentioned that out of the 40 units planned for construction, 20 would be designated for the FCT High Court, while both the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal would receive allocations of 10 units each.
