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.
