Renovated ₦39bn Tinubu ICC Generates ₦650m In Three Weeks – Wike

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Nyesom Wike, has defended the ₦39 billion expenditure on the renovation of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre (ICC), Abuja, stating that the investment is already yielding substantial returns.

Speaking during a live media chat in Abuja on Thursday, Dr. Wike revealed that the centre has already generated ₦650 million in revenue within just three weeks of its commissioning, far exceeding the ₦50 million previously earned annually from the facility.

The Minister justified naming the ICC after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stressing that the iconic facility had not undergone any major maintenance since it was constructed in 1991.

He emphasized that the decision reflects the administration’s commitment to revamping national monuments.

“The centre had been neglected since 1991. It takes a leader with vision to prioritize its renovation. This edifice projects Nigeria to the world.If you visit the Centre today, you will be happy” Wike stated.

According to him, the Bola Ahmed Tinubu ICC is already fully booked until 2027, an indication of its high demand and the quality of the transformation it underwent. “Nigerians appreciate value and quality. That’s why the Centre is in such high demand,” he added.

Responding to concerns over the possibility of a future administration renaming the centre, Wike expressed confidence that the name will stand the test of time. He pointed out that the ICC was not renamed from an existing dedication, and cited precedents such as the IBB Golf Club, various stadiums, and airports named after past Nigerian leaders.

“This is not the first time a national facility has been named in honour of a living leader. We should develop a culture of celebrating our patriotic citizens while they are still alive,” he said.

On another note, Wike addressed allegations that he allocated plots of land to his two sons, dismissing the claims as baseless blackmail sponsored by a failed politician from Adamawa State. He declined to name the individual, saying such distractions do not contribute to national development.

The FCT Minister also spoke on the political situation in his home state of Rivers, declaring that peace has returned following his reconciliation with Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

He said, “Peace has returned to Rivers State. There is no room for pessimism.”

He alleged that some individuals had been exploiting the political crisis for personal financial gains, describing it as an “oil well” for unscrupulous actors who are now disappointed by the truce.

Remi Johnson, Edited By Grace Namiji