- Tinubu’s Praise: Hails Wike as a transformational leader.
- ICC Renovation: Reopened and renamed after Tinubu.
- Infrastructure Commitment: Tinubu promises to revamp key sectors.
- Financial Discipline: Wike stresses the need for paying for facility usage.
Tinubu’s Shoutout to Wike: What’s the Big Deal?
President Tinubu didn’t hold back his admiration for Wike, telling him to ignore the “busybodies and bystanders.” According to Tinubu, Wike has the foresight, vision, and determination to succeed. This endorsement came during the reopening of the International Conference Centre (ICC) in Abuja, which Wike spearheaded the renovation of.
ICC Gets a Makeover and a New Name!
The International Conference Centre, originally opened in 1991, got a major facelift and was renamed the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre. Tinubu recalled his previous visit during the 2024 ECOWAS Parliament conference, where he was shocked by its poor condition. He challenged Wike to transform the place, and Wike delivered!
The Abuja International Conference Centre. Source: Wikipedia
Tinubu’s Promise: More Infrastructure Revamps Coming!
Tinubu assured Nigerians that his administration is committed to revitalizing infrastructure across key sectors. This includes transportation, healthcare, education, energy, and urban development. He praised Julius Berger Nigeria Plc for the high-quality renovation of the ICC, a testament to their long-standing reputation.
Wike’s Take: Pay Up or Stay Out!
Wike emphasized the need for financial discipline in maintaining the newly upgraded facility. He stated that all ministries, departments, and agencies must pay to use the ICC. No more freebies for anyone, not even for weddings! This is to ensure the long-term sustainability of the center.
Akpabio Joins the Chorus: A United Front
Senate President Godswill Akpabio also lauded the collaborative spirit between the executive, legislature, and judiciary under President Tinubu’s leadership. Halls at the center were named after key figures, including the President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the Chief Justice of Nigeria.
Why the ICC Renaming Matters
Wike explained that the ICC was named after President Bola Tinubu because he showed leadership by giving the marching order that led to the rehabilitation of the center. According to Wike, the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre can now compete with any other international conference center.
Fun Fact: Did You Know?
The International Conference Centre in Abuja has hosted numerous high-profile events, including international summits, conferences, and cultural festivals. Its renovation and renaming signify Nigeria’s commitment to becoming a hub for regional diplomacy and global partnerships.