By peterside Rejoice Eneky
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday officially inaugurated the newly rehabilitated International Conference Centre (ICC) in Abuja, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to revitalizing Nigeria’s critical infrastructure across all sectors.
At the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the President emphasized that the restoration of the ICC was emblematic of the Renewed Hope Agenda’s broader vision to position Nigeria as a hub for trade, diplomacy, and continental partnerships.
“Infrastructure renewal is at the core of our development strategy,” President Tinubu stated. “We are committed to transforming transportation, healthcare, education, energy, and urban development because we know that modern infrastructure is the backbone of a thriving and inclusive economy.”
The President lauded the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, for his swift and effective rehabilitation of the ICC, which had previously fallen into disrepair. He recalled his disappointment during a past visit to the venue for the ECOWAS Parliament Conference, describing the facility as “dirty, disorganized, and uninhabitable.”
“Have we sunk this low?” Tinubu remembered asking at the time. He thanked Wike for restoring the dignity of the facility and encouraged him to stay focused despite criticisms.
“Don’t listen to the busybodies,” he advised. “You have vision, foresight, and the determination to get the job done. Nigeria needs transformational leaders like you.”
The President also praised construction giant Julius Berger Nigeria Plc for delivering a project marked by “quality, attention to detail, and professionalism.”
“Today, we are not talking about renegotiation but rehabilitation done right,” he said.
Beyond the physical renovation, President Tinubu said the ICC’s transformation is a symbol of national self-belief and progress.
“This building now reflects what Nigeria stands for. We are correcting the wrongs, renewing our hope, and believing again in what Nigeria can become the greatest nation on earth.”
Concluding his address, President Tinubu injected humor with a firm reminder that the refurbished ICC is a national asset that must be respected.
“If you want to use this place, you must pay for it,” he said, drawing laughter from the audience.
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