Isaac Fayose Blasts Wike, Tinubu Over N39 Billion ICC Renovation, Name Change
Nigerian businessman and political commentator, Isaac Fayose, has slammed the Federal Government over the N39 billion spent on the renovation of the International Conference Centre (ICC), Abuja now renamed the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre.
The newly renovated facility was officially commissioned on Tuesday, June 11, 2025, by the Federal Capital Territory Administration, led by Minister Nyesom Wike. The centre, which has long served as a national landmark and a hub for international conferences, now bears the name of the sitting President, Bola Tinubu.
In a viral Instagram video, Fayose criticized what he called wasteful spending and political self-glorification, drawing comparisons between the original cost of the ICC and the recent renovation.
“ICC was built in 1991 from scratch for N240 million by Babangida. He didn’t name it after himself he called it International Conference Centre because he saw it as a national monument,” Fayose said.
He expressed outrage that the structure was merely renovated not rebuilt or expanded yet cost taxpayers N39 billion. He also took issue with the decision to rename the edifice after President Tinubu.
“They didn’t change the structure. They just renovated it and spent over N30 billion. And now, they want to rename it after themselves? Even Babangida who built it didn’t do that,” he said.
Fayose’s remarks reflect growing public frustration over perceived mismanagement and the prioritization of political image over public welfare.
“This is just two years in power. Inflation is rising, people are struggling, but they are focused on taking, renaming, and consolidating power,” he added.
The name change has drawn mixed reactions online, with some Nigerians calling it a needless display of ego, while supporters of the administration argue it is a fitting recognition of Tinubu’s contributions.
As at press time, neither the presidency nor the FCT Ministry has responded to Fayose’s criticism.
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