The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has firmly defended his decision to rename the newly renovated Abuja International Conference Centre after President Bola Tinubu, stating he has no regrets.
Speaking on Friday during the inauguration of the 15-kilometre OSEX Stage II carriageway from Ring Road I to Wassa Junction, Wike addressed widespread public criticism over the ₦39 billion renovation cost and the decision to name the centre after Tinubu.
Wike argued that landmark Nigerian monuments like the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport and the Moshood Abiola National Stadium were not built by their namesakes either, yet they honor national icons.
He dismissed claims that the ₦39 billion spent on the centre was excessive or misplaced, pointing to the naira’s depreciation since 1991, when the original structure was built at ₦240 million.
“I have done it, and I have no regret at all,” Wike said, adding that the centre’s structure is the only thing that remains unchanged.
The minister urged critics to appreciate the renovation’s role in reflecting Nigeria’s image as the “giant of Africa” rather than indulge in what he called baseless criticism.
