FCT Minister Wike Commended as New Centre Opens for Use
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has praised leading engineering construction firm, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, for delivering a world-class rehabilitation of the International Conference Centre (ICC), Abuja—on schedule and to top standards.
Speaking during the official commissioning of the upgraded facility on Tuesday, President Tinubu described the newly refurbished ICC as a symbol of national excellence and a powerful demonstration of his administration’s commitment to revitalizing key infrastructure under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Recalling the “embarrassing” state of the ICC during the last ECOWAS Parliament Conference, Tinubu said it had been a clear reflection of institutional decline. He noted that FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, immediately promised a complete transformation of the facility—and has now delivered on that commitment.
“I am deeply honoured to reopen this iconic venue. Today, we are not just talking about renovation, we are talking about quality rehabilitation. It reflects what Julius Berger is known for—quality, attention to detail, and good work,” Tinubu said.
He further applauded Wike, calling him a “transformational leader” with vision and determination. “Don’t pay attention to busybodies or bystanders. Keep doing your good work,” the President urged.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio also commended the transformation, describing the previous condition of the ICC as a “monumental embarrassment.” He praised the FCT Minister for delivering an impressive project, adding: “I didn’t even need to ask who handled it—I saw the trademark Julius Berger quality the moment I stepped in.”
He commended President Tinubu’s governance style, saying, “We in the National Assembly are proud to support your vision. You are determined to leave Nigeria better than you met it.”
In his remarks, Minister Wike announced that going forward, all ministries and government agencies would be required to pay fees to use the rehabilitated ICC. This, he said, was part of a sustainable revenue model to maintain the high standard of the facility.
The 10,000-capacity ICC now features state-of-the-art acoustic systems, AI-powered translation booths, and renewable energy components—making it one of the most advanced event venues in West Africa.
The ceremony was attended by top government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, traditional rulers, and dignitaries. Julius Berger’s Managing Director, Engr. Dr. Peer M. Lubasch, led the company’s delegation to the high-profile event.
