Your Lordships, Honourable Minister, Distinguished Members of the Bench and Bar, Esteemed Colleagues in the Justice Sector, It is an honour to join you at this important flag-off ceremony, a moment that demonstrates our shared commitment to strengthening the judiciary and enhancing access to justice across the federation.

I wish to commend the leadership and steadfast commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to judicial reform and to widening access to justice for all Nigerians. The current administration’s clear prioritisation of institutional strengthening, judicial independence, and infrastructural investment has created the enabling environment for initiatives such as the construction of dignified residences for heads of our courts in the FCT. This project is a tangible expression of the President’s vision that a robust judiciary is essential to national development and the consolidation of democratic governance.

I wish to specially commend the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory for his proactive support and effective coordination with the judiciary and relevant agencies. His leadership has been instrumental in translating executive support into practical outcomes that will benefit the justice system and the nation.

To the leadership of the judiciary, the members of the Bench and Bar, magistrates, legal practitioners, court administrators and support staff: your dedication to upholding the rule of law sustains public confidence in our institutions. The provision of secure and befitting accommodation for heads of court will enhance operational independence, personal security, and institutional dignity, thereby enabling judicial officers to discharge their duties with greater focus and authority.

This milestone underscores the importance of continued collaboration between the executive, the judiciary, and all justice sector stakeholders. Let us sustain this momentum by pursuing complementary reforms in case management, court infrastructure, legal aid, and administrative efficiency to ensure that access to justice is meaningful, timely, and affordable for every Nigerian.

I also urge the Chief Executives at the sub-national levels to take a cue from the Federal Government’s example by according priority attention and tangible infrastructural support to the judiciary in their respective States. A functional and well-equipped judiciary is not only a symbol of good governance but also a guarantee of peace, stability, and investor confidence. When the courts are adequately provided for, justice is not delayed, citizens’ trust is strengthened, and the rule of law becomes the true foundation of our democracy As we break ground today, may this project stand as a lasting symbol of collective resolve to protect judicial independence, uphold the Constitution, and deliver justice to the people. I thank you all for your commitment to this noble cause.