President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has mandated all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to pay for using the newly renovated International Conference Centre (ICC) in Abuja. This move aims to ensure the facility’s long-term maintenance and sustainability. Read on to discover why this decision is a big deal for Nigeria’s future!
Quick Overview: Key Points
- Tinubu’s Directive: MDAs must now pay to use the Abuja ICC.
- Renaming: The ICC is now the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre.
- Motivation: Tinubu was shocked by the center’s poor condition during a 2024 visit.
- Renewed Hope Agenda: Part of a broader plan to revitalize Nigeria’s infrastructure.
- Wike’s Role: FCT Minister praised for completing the renovation in just eight months.
The Shocking State of Affairs: Tinubu’s Wake-Up Call
President Tinubu didn’t mince words when recalling his visit to the ICC during the 2024 ECOWAS Parliament conference. He described the environment as “dirty, disorganised, and uninhabitable.” This prompted immediate action, with Tinubu tasking FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to transform the place.
A New Dawn: The Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre
The renovated ICC isn’t just getting a facelift; it’s getting a new name! FCT Minister Nyesom Wike announced that the center would now be known as the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre. This move symbolizes a fresh start and a commitment to maintaining high standards.
Why This Matters: More Than Just a Building
President Tinubu emphasized that the ICC is vital to Nigeria’s vision of becoming a hub for regional diplomacy, continental trade discussions, and global partnerships. This aligns with the ‘Nigeria First’ principle, ensuring the country plays a leading role on the international stage.
Julius Berger’s Impressive Comeback
Julius Berger Nigeria PLC, the original contractor, received high praise for delivering a top-notch renovation. Tinubu highlighted that the quality reflects the company’s long-standing reputation in Nigeria. This successful renovation sets a benchmark for future infrastructure projects.
The Renewed Hope Agenda: Infrastructure Revitalization
This initiative is part of President Tinubu’s broader Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to revitalize infrastructure across key sectors like transportation, healthcare, education, energy, and urban development. The ICC renovation is just one piece of the puzzle in creating a better Nigeria.
Wike’s Speedy Transformation: A Round of Applause
President Tinubu lauded FCT Minister Nyesom Wike for completing the renovation in just eight months after the center’s closure. Tinubu encouraged Wike to ignore critics and continue his transformational work, recognizing his foresight and determination.
Financial Discipline: Paying for Progress
Wike stressed the importance of financial discipline in maintaining the upgraded facility. He made it clear that all users, whether ministries or agencies, must pay to use the center. This will ensure the ICC remains in top condition for years to come.
Senate’s Approval: A Collaborative Effort
Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended the FCT Administration for naming halls after key figures in the executive, legislature, and judiciary. He praised the collaborative spirit under President Tinubu’s leadership, highlighting a unified effort to drive Nigeria forward.
Additional Information
The International Conference Centre was originally opened in 1991 and has served as a venue for numerous high-profile events. The recent renovation includes state-of-the-art upgrades to its facilities, ensuring it meets international standards for conferences and events. The decision to have MDAs pay for the use of the facility is aimed at fostering a culture of sustainability and accountability in the management of public assets. This aligns with global best practices in facility management, where regular maintenance and upgrades are funded through user fees.
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