Court of Appeal Abuja to Move to Permanent Site After 27 Years

The Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal is set to move to its permanent site 27 years after its establishment. This follows the groundbreaking ceremony for a five-story structure, held on Wednesday and officiated by Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola. The new building is scheduled for completion within 14 months.

Currently, the Abuja Division shares space with the Court of Appeal Headquarters in the Three Arms Zone. However, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, who is overseeing the new project, announced he has the backing of President Bola Tinubu to prioritize the judiciary’s infrastructure needs.

Minister Wike expressed gratitude for President Tinubu’s swift approval of the project. He emphasized the President’s commitment to supporting the judiciary, citing previous renovations of the National Assembly phases 1 and 2 as precedents.

“This project will cost N37 billion, with N30 billion already provided in the budget,” Wike noted. “We aim to complete it by September next year, ensuring it is ready for the new legal year.”

Chief Justice Ariwoola praised Wike’s dedication to the judiciary, recalling his contributions during his tenure as Governor of Rivers State. Ariwoola highlighted the cramped conditions the Court of Appeal currently endures and expressed optimism about the improved facilities.

Justice Dongban Mensem, President of the Court of Appeal, detailed the logistical and security challenges faced by the Abuja division due to its location within the headquarters. She explained that high-profile cases often lead to road closures around the court, disrupting local traffic.

The new structure, located in Dakibuyi District Sector Centre B, will feature 10 courtrooms, suites for justices, administrative offices, file rooms, and recreational areas. The project aims to enhance the judiciary’s efficiency and operational capacity.

Yakubu Maikyau, President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), criticized previous FCT ministers for neglecting the judiciary. He praised the current administration’s commitment, noting that this is the first significant infrastructure initiative for the judiciary in the FCT since its establishment in 1976.