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June 12 Gains Are Being Dismantled Before Our Eyes — Atiku

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…Says Tinubu’s Government Has Taken Nigeria to Its Lowest Democratic Point

By Samuel Ogidan, Abuja

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed deep concern over what he described as the steady erosion of Nigeria’s democratic foundations under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

In his Democracy Day message on Wednesday, Atiku said the sacrifices that brought about the return to civilian rule in 1999 are being reversed by the current government, which he accused of exhibiting authoritarian tendencies and undermining democratic institutions.

“The gains of June 12 were hard-won. But sadly, the democratic promise that blossomed in 1999 is being steadily dismantled before our very eyes,” Atiku stated.

According to the former Vice President, Nigeria now stands at a crossroads, with the ruling party steadily replacing democracy with a “creeping one-party dictatorship.”

“Today, Nigeria teeters on the edge of a dangerous precipice. A creeping one-party dictatorship is replacing the democratic order we bled for. Those who laid down their lives for freedom did not do so for Nigerians to suffer under economic suffocation and political intimidation,” he said.

Atiku accused the APC-led government of consolidating power by silencing opposition voices and weaponizing state institutions.

“The ruling party and its federal government now govern with the unmistakable intent to dominate, subdue, and silence. Their tactics are not subtle. Opposition voices are being systematically erased,” he alleged.

He further criticized the awarding of major government contracts to individuals allegedly linked to the presidency, as well as the renaming of national institutions in honour of President Tinubu.

“Contracts for multi-billion-naira infrastructure projects are funnelled to cronies and family associates of the president. National institutions, once symbols of unity, are being brazenly renamed in honour of a sitting president — as though the country were a private estate,” he said. “What we are witnessing is not governance — it is conquest.”

Describing the current administration as the “lowest ebb” of Nigeria’s democratic journey, Atiku lamented that policies are no longer designed to empower citizens, but rather to instill fear and consolidate elite privilege.

“Institutional integrity has been compromised. The common Nigerian has been abandoned at the altar of elite comfort. And make no mistake: this is the antithesis of everything June 12 stands for,” he declared.

Atiku, a key figure in Nigeria’s democratic history, noted that the country is once again at a critical juncture — one that demands decisive action.

“We must choose: the path of democratic renewal or the dark alley of despotism,” he warned.

In what appeared to be a veiled reference to ongoing efforts to form a coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections, Atiku said the move is driven by moral duty rather than political ambition.

“The ongoing effort to build a broad, united opposition front is not about power for power’s sake. It is a moral imperative. It is about defending the legacy of June 12 and preventing the privatization of the Nigerian state,” he explained.

“This is not just a political contest; it is a moral crusade — a struggle to liberate our economy, our democracy, and our national dignity from the grip of authoritarian forces. And like every righteous struggle, it demands courage, clarity, and collective resolve.”

Atiku emphasized that the spirit of June 12 remains alive as long as injustice and oppression persist. “As long as oppression thrives, June 12 lives on — not just as memory, but as movement. The time to rise is now.”

Reflecting on the sacrifices made in the struggle for democracy, Atiku praised the resilience of the Nigerian people and paid tribute to fallen heroes of the June 12 movement.

“The political class made painful compromises, but it was the Nigerian people who bore the heaviest burden. I, too, made my fair share of sacrifices — notably stepping aside from my presidential ambition in deference to the late Chief MKO Abiola, a gesture made in faith and loyalty to a higher national purpose,” he recounted.

He also honoured the memories of iconic pro-democracy figures who paid the ultimate price: “The late Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, Tafida Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, Alfred Rewane — these brave souls gave their lives in pursuit of a freer Nigeria. Their memories are etched into our national conscience and must never be forgotten.”

As Nigeria marks over three decades since the historic June 12, 1993 election, Atiku’s remarks serve as both a warning and a rallying call to restore democratic ideals and resist authoritarian drift.

Wike’s Aide Hits Back at Dele Momodu Over June 12 Comment: Says Media Mogul Needs ‘Deliverance, Rehabilitation’

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The Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Lere Olayinka, has issued a sharp rebuttal to media personality Chief Dele Momodu over comments questioning the role of Minister Nyesom Wike in Nigeria’s June 12 democratic struggle.

Momodu, during a recent television interview, had taken aim at Wike, asking, “Where was Wike during the June 12 struggle? Who knew him then? Yet today, he speaks as though he was a founding father of democracy.”

Reacting, Olayinka fired back in a strongly worded statement, describing Momodu’s remarks as a product of “political psychosis” and alleging that the former presidential aspirant was “haunted by Wike’s presence, even in his dreams.”

“The mental case of the self-appointed PDP chieftain appears to have progressed from psychology to psychosis,” Olayinka said. “Dele Momodu is now seeing Wike’s spirit everywhere, and he urgently needs deliverance and rehabilitation.”

He further mocked Momodu’s political standing, pointing out that he secured no delegate votes during the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential primaries in 2022, and questioned his continued fixation on Wike.

“Was Wike responsible for that too? Or is this endless obsession a reflection of deeper frustration?” Olayinka queried.

On the June 12 issue, Olayinka accused Momodu of leveraging the historic struggle for personal gain, claiming that the media mogul used the movement as a means to flee the country.

“He didn’t fight for democracy—he only used June 12 as an opportunity to ‘japa’ and chase personal comfort abroad,” Olayinka alleged.

He also took a swipe at Momodu’s journalistic approach, stating that genuine June 12 activists did not glamorize military generals or their families in lifestyle publications.

“True June 12 heroes didn’t photograph generals for glossy magazines or use the children of Abiola’s jailer as models. That was Dele Momodu’s brand of activism,” he said.

Concluding, Olayinka cautioned Momodu against placing himself in the pantheon of Nigeria’s pro-democracy heroes.

“When the real roll call of June 12 heroes is made, opportunists and hustlers like Dele Momodu should respectfully stay off the list,” he said.

The heated exchange underscores ongoing political tensions within the PDP and the broader opposition landscape, as public discourse around historical legacies and future alignments gains momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections.

June 12: Good Governance is Democracy’s Bedrock — CAN President

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As Nigeria commemorates the 2025 Democracy Day, the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Daniel Okoh, has reaffirmed that good governance remains the bedrock of a thriving democracy, calling on leaders across all tiers of government to prioritize transparency, accountability, and inclusive development.

In a statement released on Thursday to mark the anniversary of the historic June 12, 1993, presidential election, Archbishop Okoh described the day as “a beacon of hope and a reminder of our nation’s enduring democratic spirit.”

“Good governance is the cornerstone of any democracy,” the CAN President emphasized. “Nigeria’s abundant human and natural resources must be mobilized to tackle poverty, unemployment, and inequality, while investing in critical sectors like infrastructure, healthcare, and education.”

Archbishop Okoh urged Nigerians to foster unity, peace, and mutual respect, while warning against the growing threats of religious intolerance and insecurity that continue to challenge national stability.

“We must stand united against all forms of religious intolerance and violence,” he said. “It is the government’s sacred responsibility to safeguard religious freedom, ensure no citizen is persecuted for their faith, and secure justice for victims of religious violence.”

Raising alarm over the persistent insecurity across the country—including insurgency, banditry, and kidnappings—the CAN President called for urgent, sustained efforts to protect lives and property.

The Christian leader also pressed for comprehensive electoral reforms, urging the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to enhance electoral transparency and public trust in the democratic process.

“In a true democracy, citizens must enjoy the right to free speech, peaceful assembly, and press freedom,” he noted. “INEC must work diligently to ensure credibility in every electoral cycle.”

Archbishop Okoh encouraged the government to engage more constructively with the populace and pursue inclusive, people-centered solutions to the nation’s pressing challenges.

He further called on all Nigerians to remain committed to the ideals of democracy and nation-building, stating:
“Let us honor the sacrifices of our democratic heroes by building a just, inclusive, and prosperous Nigeria.”

The statement also acknowledged the continued efforts of security agencies, civil society organizations, faith groups, and everyday citizens who uphold the principles of democracy and unity.

As the nation reflects on more than three decades since the annulled 1993 election that has become a symbol of democratic aspiration, CAN’s message is a rallying call for deeper reforms to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions and restore public confidence in governance.

Tinubu to Commission Key Abuja Highway Friday as Apo Traders Suspend Business

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***Traffic Diversion Announced for Apo-Wasa Road During Ceremony

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will on Friday, June 13, commission the newly completed Left-Hand Service Carriageway of the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) Stage II, stretching from Ring Road I Junction to Wasa Junction in Abuja.

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) confirmed the commissioning ceremony will take place at 2:30 p.m., with the President expected to lead the high-profile event.

In preparation for the visit, the FCTA has announced a temporary closure of the Apo-Wasa Road from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., urging motorists to use alternative routes to avoid delays.

A statement issued by Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the FCT Minister, emphasized that the traffic diversion is essential to ensure security and the smooth conduct of the commissioning.

In a gesture of support, traders, mechanics, and other business owners in the Apo Mechanic Village have voluntarily agreed to shut down their shops on Friday to welcome the President and participate in the event.

“The traders and mechanic associations have directed their members to close shops tomorrow and resume business on Saturday,” Olayinka stated.

Traffic officers will be stationed at strategic points to guide road users and minimize inconvenience. The FCTA has also appealed to residents for understanding during the temporary disruption.

“We plead with road users that will be affected by this temporary closure to bear with the government while using alternative routes,” the statement said.

The Apo-Wasa project is a major component of the Tinubu administration’s broader infrastructure agenda, aimed at improving road connectivity and easing congestion in the southern section of the Federal Capital Territory.

The commissioning marks yet another milestone in the FCT’s ongoing urban renewal and transportation upgrades under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Lassa Fever Claims 142 Lives, NCDC Confirms 747 Cases Across 18 States

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Nigeria has recorded 747 confirmed cases of Lassa fever and 142 deaths across 18 states in 2025, according to the latest situation report from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), signaling a continued public health threat with a worrying case fatality rate of 19%.

The figures, captured as of Epidemiological Week 22, show a slight increase in fatality compared to the same period last year, despite a marginal drop in total infections. Fresh cases were reported last week from Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, and Nasarawa states.

The majority of infections—an overwhelming 91%—are concentrated in just five states: Ondo (31%), Bauchi (25%), Edo (16%), Taraba (16%), and Ebonyi (3%).

Victims are predominantly young adults, with a median age of 30 years and a near-equal gender distribution. The most affected age group remains those between 21 and 30 years.

In response to the outbreak, the NCDC has ramped up national containment efforts. “We remain vigilant and continue to coordinate response activities through our multi-partner, multi-sectoral Incident Management System,” the agency said.

As part of its intervention, the NCDC has:

Deployed 10 National Rapid Response Teams to high-burden states;

Supplied Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs), Ribavirin, and body bags to treatment centres;

Collaborated with partners such as the World Health Organization (WHO), Robert Koch Institute, Georgetown University, and DRASA Health Trust to strengthen frontline capacity.

Key achievements include:

Training of health workers in Bauchi, Ebonyi, and Benue States on Lassa fever case management;

Launch of a national IPC e-learning platform to boost infection prevention and control in healthcare settings;

Organization of sensitization webinars for clinicians and public health officials;

Distribution of updated Viral Haemorrhagic Fever (VHF) guidelines across hospitals nationwide.

The NCDC noted that infection prevention and control structures in hospitals have also been reinforced to reduce nosocomial (hospital-acquired) transmission.

Nigerians, particularly those in high-risk regions, are advised to take proactive preventive steps, such as keeping homes rodent-free, storing food properly, and maintaining personal and environmental hygiene.

“We continue to enhance surveillance, contact tracing, and active case finding, while sustaining community awareness on Lassa fever prevention,” the NCDC emphasized.

Lassa fever, an acute viral hemorrhagic illness, is primarily transmitted through contact with infected rodents or contaminated household items. With the rainy season intensifying, public health experts warn that environmental conditions may increase the risk of transmission in the weeks ahead.

The NCDC has urged state governments, community leaders, and healthcare providers to remain alert and ensure prompt reporting of suspected cases, as Nigeria continues its battle against one of its deadliest recurring outbreaks.

FG Launches ‘Free to Shine’ Campaign in South-East, Moves to End HIV, Syphilis, Hepatitis by 2030

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The Federal Government has taken a major step toward eliminating HIV/AIDS and other infectious diseases in Nigeria with the launch of the ‘Free to Shine’ campaign in Enugu, targeting the South-East region. The campaign, led by the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, marks the final regional rollout of the initiative aimed at ending HIV/AIDS, Syphilis, and Hepatitis by 2030.

The campaign is part of a broader continental initiative under the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) and the African Union, focusing on prevention, awareness, and healthcare access, especially among women and children.

“Nigeria bears the highest burden of HIV/AIDS in Sub-Saharan Africa,” said the First Lady. “This campaign aims to prevent new infections, stop mother-to-child transmission, and ensure that children born with HIV receive adequate treatment and care.”

She emphasized that the ‘Free to Shine’ campaign is aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and called for deeper collaboration with community, religious, and traditional leaders to expand testing, counselling, and treatment.

Recent data from the Federal Ministry of Health shows that in 2024 alone, over 100,000 children and nearly 2 million adults were living with HIV in Nigeria. Many HIV-positive mothers do not test their infants early due to limited awareness, resulting in preventable child deaths.

The First Lady also championed the Triple Elimination initiative, which targets the simultaneous eradication of HIV/AIDS, Syphilis, and Hepatitis—diseases she said contribute to miscarriages, stillbirths, liver complications, and high infant mortality when untreated.

She praised the efforts of frontline health workers, national agencies such as NACA and NASCP, and international partners including WHO, UNAIDS, UNICEF, UNDP, PEPFAR, and EGPAF, for their ongoing support.

In a heartfelt message to the youth, she said, “You are the most vulnerable, but also our greatest hope. Please protect yourselves.”

Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, hailed the First Lady as Nigeria’s “Chief Public Health Champion,” crediting her for mobilizing support and raising awareness across the country.

“Your leadership sends a strong message: HIV, Hepatitis, and Syphilis are preventable and treatable. These are no longer death sentences,” Salako said.

He highlighted Nigeria’s multi-pronged approach to tackling the diseases, including:

Prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT)

Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision (VMMC)

Access to Pre- and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP/PEP)

Expanded testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

According to him, 1.7 million Nigerians are currently receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART), and the federal government has made budgetary provisions to ensure consistent drug availability. Efforts are also ongoing to integrate HIV care into national health insurance schemes.

New data from NASCP suggests a steady decline in new HIV infections and vertical transmission rates, with expectations of a sharper reduction by the end of 2025.

However, Dr. Salako stressed the need for greater state-level action. “We urge state governments to increase domestic funding, absorb trained health workers, and reduce dependency on dwindling donor support.”

In a compelling message to Nigerian youth, he added: “The best prevention for HIV and STIs is a cup of water—not before, not after, but instead of sex.”

The ‘Free to Shine’ campaign, under the Renewed Hope Initiative, will continue to drive national momentum around public health, sexual health education, and disease prevention. With strong political will and sustained community engagement, Nigeria remains on course to achieve the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets by 2030.

APC Open to Welcoming Wike into the Fold – Tinubu

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday signaled that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is open to welcoming Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, into its ranks whenever he chooses to make the move.

Speaking at the commissioning of the Arterial Road N16—linking Shehu Shagari Way (Ring Road I) to Arterial Road N20 (Wole Soyinka Way)—and other key infrastructure projects in the Katampe District of Abuja, the President lauded Wike’s performance, declaring that the former Rivers State Governor has lived up to the expectations of his office.

“Even though Wike is not yet a member of our party, we are very proud of him. He is doing well. When he decides to join us, we will open our doors wide,” Tinubu said, to the applause of dignitaries. “With Wike, APC will continue to rejoice while the opposition keeps groaning.”

Wike, a prominent member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has worked closely with the Tinubu administration since his appointment last year, fueling ongoing speculation about a potential defection to the ruling party.

Tinubu’s remarks have now added fresh momentum to those rumors, as political calculations for the 2027 general elections begin to crystallize.

Despite the political undertones, the President quickly pivoted back to the day’s agenda—celebrating infrastructure delivery under his Renewed Hope Agenda.

“This project represents more than just a stretch of asphalt,” Tinubu said. “It affirms our commitment to urban transformation. Since assuming office, this administration has been guided by a philosophy anchored on reform and regeneration. Today, we see tangible proof of that vision.”

He applauded the FCT Administration for completing the long-neglected road, which had been stalled for years despite its centrality to the Abuja Master Plan.

“What was once a missing link is now a vital artery—modern, functional, and durable. This road will ease traffic congestion in Central Abuja and enhance connectivity to Katampe, Jahi, Mabushi, and beyond,” he noted.

Reaffirming the importance of infrastructure to national development, Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to roads, railways, power, healthcare, education, and digital infrastructure.

“Infrastructure is not a luxury; it is a necessity. It is the bedrock of economic opportunity, industrialization, and national integration. And I promise you—we will keep building,” he vowed.

The President also credited the road’s success to collaborative leadership within the FCT team.

“Barrister Wike could not have achieved this alone. It takes teamwork, and you have shown that the right leadership delivers results,” Tinubu said.

He called on Abuja residents to take ownership of the newly delivered infrastructure and ensure its preservation.

“The government has played its part. Now it’s your turn. Use this road wisely, protect it, and don’t let distractions deter development. We didn’t allow protests to stop us, and we won’t stop building.”

In his own remarks, the FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, described the road as more than an engineering feat, calling it a symbol of national renewal and future-focused governance.

“This project is not just concrete and asphalt. It’s a bold statement that under the Renewed Hope Agenda, Abuja is reclaiming its vision,” Wike said. “What was once a gap in the city’s plan is now a functional and durable connection to Abuja’s future.”

He noted that the corridor had remained dormant for years, despite its critical role in urban mobility and development. With its completion, the revitalized artery is expected to decongest traffic in central districts and unlock housing and commercial opportunities.

“This road will open up the FCT for new investments and help integrate emerging districts into the city’s economy. It lays the foundation for a more connected and resilient Abuja,” Wike added.

The Arterial Road N16 project forms part of a broader wave of infrastructure projects being unveiled across the FCT in a 10-day commissioning campaign approved by President Tinubu.

Tinubu’s Good Work Has Killed the Coalition – Wike Declares at Road Commissioning

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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has declared that efforts by opposition forces to form a coalition against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections are doomed to fail.

Speaking on Wednesday during the official commissioning of the Arterial Road N16 in the Katampe District of Abuja, Wike attributed the collapse of the planned coalition to President Tinubu’s performance in office.

> “Your good work has killed the coalition,” Wike said directly to the President during the inauguration ceremony. “I was thinking that truly, there would be a coalition. But that coalition is bound to fail, and it has already failed.”

The newly inaugurated road connects Shehu Shagari Way (Ring Road I) to Wole Soyinka Way (Arterial Road N20), and includes an interchange and other link roads designed to enhance access to Katampe, Jahi, Mabushi, and other developing districts.

Describing the project as a critical component of the Abuja Master Plan, Wike noted that the corridor had been neglected for years before its revival under the current administration.

“This road is more than just asphalt and concrete. It is proof of this administration’s commitment to infrastructure-led development under the Renewed Hope Agenda,” the FCT Minister stated.

He also commended President Tinubu for approving a 10-day window for the commissioning of multiple completed projects across the capital, describing it as a show of confidence in the FCT Administration.

> “Your leadership style is results-driven. Abuja is changing because we are matching words with action. This project is a clear symbol of that transformation,” Wike said.

In his remarks, President Bola Tinubu praised Wike’s leadership and the teamwork within the FCT Administration, saying that the government would continue to prioritize infrastructure to drive national development.

“Infrastructure is not a luxury—it is a necessity. It’s the bedrock of our economy, of social integration, and industrial growth,” the President said.

“We’re investing in roads, rail, power, healthcare, education, and digital infrastructure because coordinated development is the only way to unlock Nigeria’s full potential,” he added.

President Tinubu further urged residents of the FCT to take ownership of the newly commissioned infrastructure and ensure its maintenance, affirming that the federal government will not be distracted by political opposition.

“We will continue to build and serve the people, no matter the noise from the naysayers,” Tinubu stated.

More projects are expected to be inaugurated in the coming days as part of ongoing urban renewal efforts in the capital city.

“Ignore the Bystanders, Tinubu ***Commissions Abuja ICC, Declares End to Free Use

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…Says Wike’s Transformation Reflects New Nigeria, Urges Payment Culture for Public Facilities

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday commissioned the newly renovated Abuja International Conference Centre now renamed the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre with a firm declaration that the era of free or sentimental access to public facilities is over.

“Don’t mind the distractors and busybodies,” Tinubu said, turning to Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike. “You want to use this place? Then you must pay for it. Obey the landlord!”

The President’s remarks, met with laughter and applause, sent a clear message about the administration’s commitment to accountability, sustainability, and renewed national pride under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The ICC, once a symbol of national embarrassment, has been completely transformed into a world-class hub for diplomacy, commerce, and governance—a metamorphosis Tinubu credited to Wike’s visionary leadership.

“When I attended the ECOWAS Parliament here, the place was filthy and disorganised. I told Wike, ‘This does not represent who we are.’ He promised to fix it and today, I’m proud of what I see,” the President recalled.

Tinubu urged Wike to stay focused, praising his bold reforms and urban renewal drive in the capital city.

“Don’t pay attention to busybodies and bystanders,” he repeated. “You’re a transformational leader with the foresight and courage to deliver. Keep going.”

The President said the upgraded ICC is more than just a building—it’s a metaphor for Nigeria’s broader transformation. Under his administration, public infrastructure is being reimagined to meet global standards.

“This centre shows what Nigeria can be. We’re fixing what’s wrong, and showing the world that Nigeria is back with confidence and vision.”

In his remarks, Senate President Godswill Akpabio shared his dismay at the rundown state of the ICC during a regional event last year. Dim lighting, faulty generators, and peeling walls embarrassed Nigeria before its West African peers.

“Mr. President, you turned to me and asked, ‘Is this what we’re showcasing to West Africa?’” Akpabio recounted. “But thanks to Wike’s swift action, that shame has been erased.”

He praised the renaming of the halls after leaders from the Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary, calling it a powerful symbol of unity and collective leadership in Nigeria’s ongoing renewal.

“This is transformation, whether people like it or not,” Akpabio added. “The Parliament is proud of you. We approve budgets, but you execute with excellence.”

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike lauded President Tinubu’s unwavering leadership and the directive that spurred the renovation. He said the project’s success was not just physical but philosophical—signaling that Nigeria demands excellence in all things.

“Because of your instruction, we now have a centre that rivals any in the world,” Wike said.

He made it clear that sentiment and favoritism will no longer influence facility use. Whether government officials or private citizens, all users must pay a fee to access the ICC.

“There is nothing like ‘my brother wants to host a wedding.’ If you want to use this beautiful place, you must drop something,” Wike declared. “That’s the only way we can maintain and sustain it.”

Wike also exposed how the facility had been mismanaged by a politically connected individual who attempted to block the rehabilitation in court.

“If not for your kind of leadership, Mr. President, we would not have succeeded. Our real problem in Nigeria is leadership—and you’ve proven that when it’s right, everything else follows.”

The event drew dignitaries from across Nigeria, all hailing the rebirth of the ICC as a visible symbol of the Renewed Hope Agenda, and a preview of the urban transformation set to define Tinubu’s legacy.

Wike Renames Abuja ICC After Tinubu, Ends Free Access for Ministries and Agencies

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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has renamed the Abuja International Conference Centre (ICC) as the Bola Tinubu International Conference Centre, in honour of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Wike made the announcement on Tuesday during the inauguration of the newly rehabilitated facility in Abuja, describing it as a symbol of national unity and a testament to leadership under the current administration.

He also revealed that major halls within the complex have been renamed after key figures in Nigeria’s three arms of government: Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, and Chief Justice Olukayode Ariwoola.

“These are the three arms of government working together. It is only right that they are recognised within this iconic structure,” Wike said.

Built in 1991, the ICC had suffered years of neglect, according to the Minister. He credited the eight-month transformation of the facility to President Tinubu’s leadership, declaring that the upgraded centre now meets global standards.

“Without Mr. President’s leadership and directive, this wouldn’t have been possible. Today, this Centre can stand shoulder to shoulder with any international conference centre around the world,” he added.

To prevent further deterioration and ensure proper upkeep, Wike announced a strict user-pay policy. All users—including ministries, agencies, and private individuals—will now be required to pay before using the facility.

“No more free access, no more sentiments,” he said. “If you want to use a place like this, then you must drop something. That’s the only way it can be sustained.”

Wike also hinted at past mismanagement of the facility, noting that a politically connected individual had attempted to block its rehabilitation through legal action, which was ultimately unsuccessful.

The minister reiterated his commitment to accountability and restoring the FCT’s public infrastructure to world-class standards.