FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has strongly defended the controversial N39 billion renovation of the Abuja International Conference Centre, now renamed the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, telling critics they “do not have good taste.”
Speaking while commissioning a road project on Friday, Wike justified the substantial cost by emphasizing the extensive nature of the renovations. He stated that everything except the block work was completely replaced in the facility originally built for N240 million in 1991.
The minister attributed the cost difference to economic factors, particularly exchange rate changes between 1991 and 2025. “No patriotic Nigerian would criticise what we have done. The transformation reflects Nigeria’s status as the Giant of Africa,” Wike declared.
Addressing criticism about naming the building after President Tinubu, Wike cited precedents like Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport and Moshood Abiola Stadium, noting that these facilities weren’t built by their namesakes.
The minister also reaffirmed his loyalty to President Tinubu, stating he would continue to defend his boss without regret.
The renovation has sparked widespread public debate about government spending priorities and fiscal responsibility, with many Nigerians questioning the massive expenditure amid ongoing economic challenges.
