The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has called on the federal government to amend laws to allow law schools to benefit from the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund).
Wike made this appeal on Monday at the Nigeria Law School in Bwari, Abuja, during the flag-off ceremony for the design and construction of 10 staff quarters for the institution.
He emphasised that the inclusion of law schools in TETFund funding would significantly enhance the development and maintenance of the schools across the country.
The minister also announced the approval for the construction of new hostel buildings for male and female students, reiterating the importance of adequate facilities in promoting quality education.
Wike dismissed his critics, asserting that their opinions would not deter his commitment to improving the judiciary.
He stressed that it is the federal government’s responsibility to provide the necessary infrastructure for institutions like the law school.
Wike said: “This school is owned by the federal government. There’s nothing wrong with the federal government trying to provide facilities for the school. Mr. President mandated me to provide these facilities.
“When I came for the last call to the bar, I saw very bad buildings, I couldn’t believe that this is where lawyers are being trained? We have included funds in the 2025 budget for two hostels in the Law School, one for males and another for females, anybody angry with what I am doing for the judiciary should wait for their turn to do for their profession.
“It’s getting too late for the Nigeria Law School to be added to benefit from TETFund.
Wike assured that there was funds for the contractor, to facilitate the completion of the project without delay.
“I believe contracts should be awarded and finished, not to abandon it, waste government money and suffer the people”, he added.
Wike reiterated National Assembly’s readiness to help in executing FCT Administration’s budgets.
Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) thanked Wike for making President Bola Tinubu approve the project.
He said: “Whether you like him or not you like him (Wike), you can’t dispute the fact that he is performing. Mr. Project does not embark on projects he does not have money for. He is a crusader of “if you do not have money don’t award contract”.
He also noted that it was unfortunate that TETFund cannot capture the Law School for funding.
Fagbemi said: “Hon. Minister, we appreciate you. Nobody can take this away from you. You are an achiever. Your worth is not in the figure in the bank, but how much you touch lives.”
Also, chairman of the Body of Benchers, Adegboyega Awomolo thanked Wike for the good gesture he has been extending to the judiciary.
He said: “History will write your name in gold at the appropriate time. Wike will be one of those who will never be forgotten in the FACT for what he’s doing.”
The acting Executive Secretary, FCDA, Richard Unana explained that 10 blocks of four-bedroom structures as staff quarters would be fully furnished with other necessary supplies.
