From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
The Body of Benchers, Nigeria’s apex legal institution, has conferred an Award of Excellence on Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike for his transformative contributions to judicial infrastructure and the legal profession.
The recognition came during a courtesy visit by a high-powered delegation led by the Chairman, Adegboyega Awomolo, and Vice Chairman, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, at Wike’s Abuja residence on March 28, 2025.
Awomolo, according to a statement issued by the Director of Press, Anthony Ogunleye, praised Wike as a “worthy ambassador” of the legal profession, emphasising his role in advancing judicial welfare through infrastructure projects. These include the ongoing construction of accommodations for judicial officers in Abuja and Rivers State, as well as an office annex for the Body of Benchers in the FCT. The chairman noted that Wike’s interventions, dating back to his tenure as Rivers State governor, underscored his commitment to the judiciary’s independence and efficiency.
Wike reiterated that all projects, including the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal and Judges’ Quarters, followed strict adherence to budgetary approvals by President Bola Tinubu and the National Assembly. He stressed that fiscal responsibility guided decisions, such as earmarking funds for hostels at the Nigerian Law School, Bwari, in the 2025 budget.
The minister defended the FCTA’s land revocation policies, dismissing allegations of political bias. He cited the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) headquarters as an example, stating the property’s title was not registered in the party’s name and owed 23 years of unpaid ground rent. “If you don’t pay, I revoke it,” he declared, adding that institutions like INEC and the CBN also faced revocation warnings until they settled debts.
The delegation briefed Wike on the Body of Benchers’ initiatives to digitise court proceedings and empower young lawyers, aligning with broader efforts to modernise Nigeria’s judiciary. Chief Awomolo urged sustained support for these reforms, while Wike pledged to prioritise projects that enhance judicial performance.
The award reflects growing collaboration between government and legal institutions to strengthen Nigeria’s judicial system. As Chief Awomolo noted, Wike’s role as a “faithful member” of the Body of Benchers underscores his alignment with President Tinubu’s vision for institutional excellence.
Delegation Members: The visit included former Chief Justice of Nigeria Justice Kayode Ariwoola, former FCT High Court Chief Judge Justice Ishaq Bello, and legal luminary Chief Joe Kyari Gadzama.