Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, defended the ₦39 billion allocated for the renovation of Abuja’s International Conference Centre (ICC), describing the project as a reflection of President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to world-class infrastructure.
The announcement came during a press briefing in Abuja, where Wike outlined the need to restore the ICC to host global events like the 2026 Commonwealth Summit. The renovation, managed by Julius Berger, addresses longstanding structural and technological deficiencies identified in a 2023 assessment, which highlighted risks of collapse and outdated conferencing systems.
The project, approved by the Federal Executive Council in 2024, encompasses upgrades to the ICC’s 5,000-seat capacity, installation of advanced audio-visual technology, and eco-friendly designs to align with global sustainability standards. The initiative aims to position Nigeria as a hub for international diplomacy, capable of hosting summits rivaling those in Dubai or Singapore. The ICC, built in 1991, had faced disruptions during past events, including power failures that marred a 2022 African Union meeting. The renovation, set for completion by December 2025, is expected to enhance Nigeria’s ability to attract high-profile conferences, boosting tourism and foreign exchange earnings.
The expenditure comes amid Nigeria’s economic challenges, with inflation at 34% and the naira at ₦1,600 to $1, prompting debates over fiscal priorities. The project’s funding, drawn from the 2024 FCT budget, reflects Tinubu’s broader infrastructure agenda, which includes the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. The ICC’s upgrade, a flagship initiative, underscores efforts to elevate Nigeria’s global standing, though it faces scrutiny over cost management in a resource-constrained environment. The renovation, a testament to Tinubu’s vision, aims to deliver long-term economic benefits while navigating public expectations for transparency and accountability.