The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has defended the ongoing N39 billion rehabilitation of the International Conference Centre (ICC) in Abuja, insisting that Nigeria deserves a world-class facility that reflects its status as Africa’s largest economy.
During an inspection of key infrastructure projects in the FCT, Wike expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work at the ICC and several ongoing road projects. He stated that all necessary materials had been secured and that construction progress was already between 70 and 80 percent.
“I am pleased with what is happening. Julius Berger has assured us they will complete the project. The total cost is N39 billion, not N39 million,” Wike emphasized, dismissing any misconceptions about the scale of the investment.
The minister argued that Nigeria should not lag behind other nations in terms of modern infrastructure, questioning why the country should settle for substandard facilities when global standards exist.
“We are committed to providing Nigerians with the best, and I thank Mr. President for his support. If we had a president without foresight, this project might have been abandoned like many others before it. But he saw the need to provide Nigeria with a befitting conference centre,” Wike said.
He expressed confidence that the ICC would soon be completed and recommissioned by President Bola Tinubu. He also inspected the OSEX project in Wassa, where contractors assured him of its progress.
However, Wike raised concerns over another project at N5, where Julius Berger is handling construction, saying he was uncertain whether it would be completed as scheduled.
The minister reiterated his administration’s commitment to urban renewal and infrastructure development, stressing that Abuja must maintain its status as a modern and functional capital city.
