In a bold move, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has declared that he has no regrets over his decision to name the Abuja International Conference Centre after President Bola Tinubu. This statement comes amid criticism from various quarters, following the centre’s reopening on Tuesday. The rehabilitation of the centre, which cost a substantial N39 billion, has also been met with controversy, with some describing it as a misplaced priority.
During the inauguration of the completed 15-kilometre left-hand service carriage way of OSEX Stage II, Mr Wike expressed his dismay at the backlash, questioning why some individuals were opposed to the naming of the conference centre after President Tinubu. He drew parallels with other notable landmarks, such as the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport and the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, which were not built by the individuals they were named after. Mr Wike countered that those criticising the rehabilitation of the centre lacked good taste, stating, “I have done it, and I have no regret at all.”
The minister highlighted that the only aspect of the centre that remained unchanged was its structure, as “everything in that centre was changed.” He expressed disappointment that instead of acknowledging President Tinubu’s accomplishments, some people were indulging in baseless criticism. In response to concerns about the N39 billion spent on the renovation, Mr Wike pointed out that the original construction cost of N240 million was incurred in 1991, and that the current exchange rate and changing times must be taken into consideration. “They said that the centre was built with N240 million, but which year? 1991. What was the exchange rate in 1991 compared with today? Look at it, 1991 and we are now in 2025,” he argued.
Mr Wike emphasized that Nigeria’s status as the giant of Africa necessitates the presence of world-class infrastructure, such as the renovated conference centre. “Nobody who loves this country will criticise the rehabilitation of the international conference centre,” he asserted. The minister concluded by stating that the country deserves the best, and that President Tinubu has delivered on this promise. With the controversy surrounding the naming and renovation of the Abuja International Conference Centre, it remains to be seen how this development will impact the country’s reputation and relationships with its citizens and the international community.
