- Wike argued that the renovation of the Abuja ICC was necessary.
- Naming of ICC facility after President Tinubu is an appropriate gesture.
- Critics lack appreciation for quality and aesthetics.
Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has reaffirmed his decision to name the rehabilitated Abuja International Conference Centre after President Bola Tinubu.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the statement came during the inauguration of the 15-kilometer left-hand service carriage way of OSEX Stage II, from Ring Road I to Wassa Junction, on Friday.
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Responding to the criticism surrounding the naming of the centre and the expenditure of N39 billion on its renovation, Wike emphasized the significance of honoring deserving individuals.
He drew comparisons to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, not built by Azikiwe, and the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, not built by Abiola.
According to Wike, the criticism of the naming choice is indicative of a lack of appreciation for quality and aesthetics.
He argued that the renovation of the Abuja International Conference Centre was necessary and the naming of the facility after President Tinubu is an appropriate gesture.
“I have done it, and I have no regret at all,” Wike said.
He said the only thing that was not changed in the centre was the structure saying, “everything in that centre was changed”.
He expressed disappointment that instead of praising Tinubu for his accomplishments, some individuals choose to engage in unwarranted criticism.
Wike stated that those who see the expenditure as a misplaced priority are not taking into account the significant changes in the value of the Naira and the cost of materials since the centre was originally built in 1991 for N240 million.
“They said that the centre was built with N240 million, but which year? 1991. What was the exchange rate in 1991 compared with today? Look at it, 1991 and we are now in 2025.
“Nobody who loves this country will criticise the rehabilitation of the international conference centre,” he said.
The minister said that Nigeria was seen as the giant of Africa, adding that people must see what makes the country the giant of Africa.
“We deserve the best for the country and Mr President has given us the best,” he said.
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