The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has defended the ₦39 billion spent on the renovation of the International Conference Centre (ICC) in Abuja, describing the upgrade as necessary and reflective of Nigeria’s status as the “Giant of Africa.”
Speaking on Friday during the commissioning of a newly constructed service carriageway in the capital, Wike addressed criticism surrounding both the cost of the project and the decision to rename the centre after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“The only thing in that International Conference Centre that was not changed is just the block work,” Wike stated. “Everything in that Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre was changed. We have taste, and the president has given the best for the country.”
President Tinubu inaugurated the newly refurbished ICC on Tuesday, June 10, 2025. The building, originally constructed in 1991 during the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida, was renamed by Wike to honour President Tinubu. The renaming sparked public debate, with critics—including former lawmaker “Shehu Sani”—arguing that the building should have retained historical ties to Babangida.
However, Wike dismissed such arguments as politically motivated and based on flawed comparisons.
“They said we did not name the International Conference Centre after someone who built it,” he said. “But Nnamdi Azikwe International Airport was not built by Nnamdi Azikwe, and Moshood Abiola Stadium was not built by Abiola either.”
He also responded to those who questioned the ₦39bn renovation cost, especially when compared to the ₦240 million reportedly used to build the facility in 1991.
“What was the exchange rate in 1991?” Wike asked rhetorically. “Compare that to what we have in 2025. People don’t have good taste; that’s why they criticise. If you love this country, you won’t question why the facility was upgraded.”
The minister said the centre was redesigned to meet modern international standards, attracting global attention to Nigeria as a serious player on the world stage.
“Nigeria as the Giant of Africa must not only say it is the Giant; it must also show it,” he emphasized. “Nobody who loves this country would criticise the International Conference Centre.”
Wike further pledged loyalty to President Tinubu, saying he would continue to defend the administration’s development initiatives.
“If you did not do well to defend your boss when you had the opportunity, it is your business. I am here, and I will defend my boss. I have done it, and I have no regret at all,” he declared.
While public reaction remains divided, Wike maintained that the renovation was not a misplaced priority but a visionary project that aligns with President Tinubu’s commitment to infrastructure and national prestige.
As debate continues over the cost and symbolism of the refurbished centre, Wike’s defense sets the tone for further justifications of capital spending under the Tinubu administration.
