Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has announced that the newly renovated Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja generated N650 million in revenue within just three weeks of reopening.
Wike disclosed during a media parley on Thursday, while addressing the backlash over the renaming of the International Conference Centre (ICC) in Abuja after President Bola Tinubu, that he dismissed claims that the move was an act of sycophancy.
“We made N650 million in revenue within only three weeks of reopening the newly renovated Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja,” he disclosed.
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“The venue is booked until 2027. So you ask, why name it after Bola Tinubu? Who else deserves the honor more?” Wike questioned.
Wike underscored the need to celebrate national heroes during their lifetime and while they remain active in nation-building, as he responded to concerns over the recent renaming of the ICC.
He rejected the idea that the ICC should maintain a neutral name, pointing out that many public facilities, like the IBB International Golf Club, already bear the names of notable Nigerians.
Responding to claims of political favoritism, Wike stated, “How is it flattery to recognize someone who has demonstrated leadership and helped me deliver results? We tend to celebrate people only after they pass away. I refuse to follow that pattern.”
He also challenged the criticism against honoring a current leader, saying, “Why all this fuss about renaming the ICC after Tinubu? Should we instead name it after criminals?”
Wike emphasized that the renaming decision was grounded in Tinubu’s achievements and service, rather than political bias.
It would be recalled ICC was recently been renamed to celebrate President Tinubu’s leadership.
