Abuja: The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, announced that the Abuja International Conference Centre (AICC) will be the inaugural project opened by President Bola Tinubu. Wike revealed this information following an inspection of the project, emphasizing that the inauguration will coincide with the celebration of Tinubu’s second year in office.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Wike lauded Julius Berger, the contractor responsible for the comprehensive renovation of the centre, for their quality work and adherence to the agreed project timeline. The minister highlighted the decrepit condition of the centre before President Tinubu’s directive for its rehabilitation and upgrade to meet international standards. He noted that the centre, built in 1991, had not seen any significant refurbishment until now.
Wike underscored this achievement as a clear example of effective leadership, stating, “No responsible leader would allow such a facility to be referred to as an international conference centre, given its deplorable state.” He credited President Tinubu’s leadership and support for the transformation of the centre into a world-class facility, adding, “That’s what leadership is all about.”
In addition to the AICC, Wike also inspected the ongoing extension of Obafemi Awolowo Way (N5), from Life Camp Junction to Ring Road III, also being executed by Julius Berger. He expressed confidence that the first phase of this project would be included in the celebrations for Tinubu’s second anniversary in office. Wike commended the contractor’s commitment to excellence, which was evident in every aspect of the project, from the equipment used to the skilled labor employed. He remarked, “This project is a testament to the Renewed Hope Agenda, and we’re thrilled to see it come to fruition.”