Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has disclosed that his administration has embarked on a N39billion project for the complete rehabilitation of the International Conference Centre (ICC) in Abuja.
Wike, who announced this on Wednesday after inspecting some major projects in the FCT, expressed satisfaction with the progress of work at the International Conference Centre and ongoing road constructions.
He stated that all necessary materials were on-site and that work was approximately 70 to 80 per cent completed. The contractors assured the Minister that they would finish and hand over the project by May.
“I am pleased with what is happening. Julius Berger has promised us that they will complete it. The total cost is N39 billion, not N39million naira,” he emphasized.
“Furthermore, all the required materials are available. When discussing the percentage of work progress, it is essential to consider both the work completed and the materials on-site. I can confidently say that work is 70 to 80 per cent complete, and they have assured us they will finish and hand it over by May.”
Wike noted, “For everyone’s satisfaction, coming from a country like this, we cannot discuss having a befitting conference center. What is the essence of Nigeria, the largest nation? Are we merely large in name? We travel globally and observe standards; why should our own be different?”
“We are committed to providing Nigerians the best, and I thank God for the support of Mr. President, who affirmed that we can continue this project. Based on what you have seen, it truly is an international conference center,” he said.
He expressed optimism that by May 2025, President Bola Tinubu will recommission the rehabilitated ICC.
“I thank God and Mr. President for his support. If we had a president without foresight, things might have remained as they were for many years while other presidents came and went.
“No one deemed it necessary to ensure Nigeria has an international conference center befitting of our status as a nation. However, he came here and said that this situation cannot continue. We must provide the country with the best, and that is what is happening today,” he stated.
