President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday officially reopened the newly renovated International Conference Centre (ICC) in Abuja, now renamed the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, with a firm call for Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to pay for its usage to ensure long-term maintenance and sustainability.
The historic venue, originally opened in 1991, underwent an extensive renovation following Tinubu’s dismay during his visit to the 2024 ECOWAS Parliament conference, where he described the state of the ICC as “dirty, disorganised, and uninhabitable.”
“I turned to Mr. Wike and said, ‘This Conference Centre does not reflect who we are. Have we sunk this low?’” the President recalled.
Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike led the renovation efforts, delivering the upgraded facility within just eight months. President Tinubu praised the transformation, calling Wike a “visionary, transformational leader” and urging him to ignore critics and stay focused on development.
“Continue your good work. You are a transformational leader with foresight, vision, and determination,” Tinubu affirmed during the ceremony.
The President also commended Julius Berger Nigeria PLC, the original contractor, for delivering the high-quality restoration, stating it aligns with the standards the company is known for.
Under the Renewed Hope Agenda, Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to revitalising national infrastructure in transportation, healthcare, education, energy, and urban development. He described the ICC as a vital asset in advancing Nigeria’s status as a hub for regional diplomacy and global partnerships.
Speaking at the event, Senate President Godswill Akpabio lauded the decision to name ICC halls after the heads of the legislative and judicial arms of government, hailing the symbolic collaboration between the branches of power under Tinubu’s leadership.
FCT Minister Wike emphasized the importance of financial responsibility in maintaining the upgraded facility.
“No free access—whether it’s a ministry event or a family wedding, everyone must pay something to use this space,” Wike declared, underlining the importance of fiscal discipline in preserving public assets.