Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has spoken out in defense of the N39 billion spent on renovating the International Conference Centre (ICC), originally built in 1991 at a cost of N240 million.
He addressed concerns about the high cost during the commissioning of a newly completed 15-kilometre section of the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) Stage II, linking Ring Road 1 Junction to Wasa Junction.
Wike noted the sharp difference in economic conditions between 1991 and 2025 as a major factor for the increased budget. “What was the exchange rate in 1991?” he asked.
“Compare the exchange rate to what we have in 2025.” He added that inflation and other economic changes over the years have significantly raised costs. Beyond that, Wike stressed the importance of quality and taste in the project, saying, “We have taste, we want the best for the country, and the president has given the best for the country.”
The FCT minister also responded firmly to critics who questioned the necessity and timing of the renovation, calling on them to respect the decisions made by the government. “If you did not do well to defend your boss when you had the opportunity, it is your business. I am here, and I will defend my boss. I have done it and I have no regret at all,” he said.
This statement comes shortly after President Bola Tinubu officially reopened the refurbished ICC, which Wike renamed the Bola Tinubu International Conference Centre. The renaming and the large renovation cost sparked public debate and criticism.
Wike addressed this backlash directly, stating that those opposing the project “don’t have good taste.” He explained the extent of the renovation, noting that “The only thing in that International Conference Centre that was not changed was the block work.” According to him, every other part of the building was replaced or improved.
