President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday inaugurated the newly renovated Abuja International Conference Centre (AICC), now officially renamed the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, amid both praise and public debate.
The high-profile ceremony in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) drew key political leaders and government dignitaries, including the FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Wike in his address, defended the controversial decision to rename the iconic facility after President Tinubu, attributing the extensive upgrades to the president’s leadership.
“It is important for the public to know and understand why this is called Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre,” Wike said.
“Since its construction in 1991 under the military government, nothing substantial had been done to this conference centre.”
Recalling President Tinubu’s visit in mid-2024 to inaugurate the ECOWAS Parliament at the facility, Wike continued: “You said, ‘How can we have this?’ That shows leadership.
“Within eight months, Mr. President, this is what we have. Without your leadership, it wouldn’t have been possible.”
Built during the regime of former military President, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida, the facility had languished in disrepair for decades.
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The ₦39 billion ($34 million) renovation project was commissioned earlier this year, amid growing concerns over Nigeria’s economic challenges and surging inflation.
The hefty renovation price tag sparked widespread criticism, with many Nigerians questioning the government’s priorities at a time of economic hardship.
However, Wike reiterated that the upgrade was essential for Nigeria’s international reputation.
“At a time when we travel globally and observe world-class standards, why should our own facilities be different?” Wike said during a media briefing in Abuja.
“Mr. President approved the funds because he understands the importance of showcasing Nigeria as the leader of Africa.”
The renovation project, executed by Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, is reportedly 70 to 80 percent complete, with full delivery expected by May 2026.
“With the availability of all necessary materials and an aggressive project timeline, we are on track to meet our completion deadline,” Wike assured.
The newly christened Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre is expected to host major international summits, conferences, and cultural events, positioning Abuja more prominently on the global conference tourism map.