Tinubu Renames Abuja Conference Centre Amid N39 Billion Renovation Controversy

By Usman A Harande

Abuja Nigeria

CONTROVERSY TRAILS TINUBU’S RENAMING OF ABUJA CONFERENCE CENTRE AFTER N39 BILLION RENOVATION

In a move that has sparked heated debate among Nigerians, President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday commissioned the renovated Abuja International Conference Centre, now renamed in his honor. The ceremony, attended by top government officials, including FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, drew widespread criticism due to the hefty N39 billion price tag.

The conference centre, initially built in 1991 during the military regime of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, had fallen into disrepair over the years. However, the decision to rename it after President Tinubu, coupled with the enormous renovation cost, has raised eyebrows among citizens struggling with economic hardship and inflation.

According to Wike, the renovation was essential to boost Nigeria’s global image, stating, “For everyone’s satisfaction, coming from a country like this, we cannot discuss having a befitting conference centre. What is the essence of Nigeria, the largest nation? Are we merely large in name?” The minister defended the cost, saying the project was necessary to meet international standards.

The renovation, executed by Julius Berger, is said to be 70-80% complete, with the company assuring completion by May. While some have praised the upgrade, many Nigerians have expressed dismay over the enormous cost, questioning the priority given to the project amidst pressing economic challenges.

“It is important for the public to know and understand why this is called Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre… Without your leadership, it wouldn’t have been possible,” Wike said, attributing the project’s success to Tinubu’s leadership.

“We travel globally and observe standards; why should our own be different?” Wike added, justifying the N39 billion expenditure.

Background:

The Abuja International Conference Centre has been a national landmark since its construction in 1991. Its renovation and renaming have significant implications for Nigeria’s diplomatic and economic landscape.

The commissioning of the renovated centre marks a new chapter in Nigeria’s conference hosting capabilities. However, the controversy surrounding the cost and renaming is likely to continue, with many Nigerians demanding greater transparency in government spending.

Public Reaction:

The development has elicited mixed reactions on social media, with some praising the upgrade as a boost to Nigeria’s global image, while others have criticized the enormous cost, questioning the government’s priorities.

The renovation was carried out by Julius Berger.

The project was initially budgeted for N39 billion.

The centre was built in 1991 during the military regime of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida.

The renaming and commissioning ceremony was attended by top government officials, including FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

About The Author