By Huldah Shado & Samuel Adeola
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Monday expressed displeasure over the slow pace of construction at the new Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal complex located in Dakibiyu, Jabi District.
Wike, who inspected the project alongside the Judges’ Quarters in Katampe District, told journalists after the tour that he doubted the contractor’s ability to meet the September 2025 completion target, which had been set to coincide with the Court of Appeal’s new legal year celebration.
“I’m afraid; I’m really not too satisfied. I don’t think that the contractor will meet up,” he said.
The minister disclosed that he had summoned the contractor for an urgent meeting to explore ways of accelerating the work, stressing that the project is of great importance to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“I do know that it will not exceed this year. I have sent them to call the contractor. Let’s put our heads together because it’s one project that is dear to Mr. President,” Wike added.
During the inspection, Wike, however, expressed satisfaction with the level of progress recorded at the Judges’ Quarters in Katampe, where 40 five-bedroom duplexes are being built for Justices of the Federal High Court, the FCT High Court, and the Court of Appeal.
“We are impressed with the speed of work and the duration is for them to hand over by January 2026 with complete furnishing.
“I believe with the way they are going, they may be able to hand over before that date,” he remarked.
The minister noted that the provision of decent housing for judicial officers is a critical part of President Tinubu’s agenda to protect judicial independence, adding that secure and private accommodation would allow judges to live without undue external influence and focus on their constitutional responsibilities.
