Wike Announces Significant Progress In ₦39bn ICC Rehabilitation At 80% Completion

ABUJA – The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has assured that the ongoing rehabilitation of the International Conference Center (ICC) and key road infrastructure projects in Abuja will be completed by May 2025, ahead of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second year in office.

Speaking during an inspection tour of the projects, Wike revealed that the ₦39 billion ICC rehabilitation, handled by Julius Berger, is 70 to 80 percent complete, with all necessary materials already on-site.

He recalled that President Tinubu had ordered its immediate shutdown after noticing its dilapidated state while inaugurating the ECOWAS Parliament.

Reflecting on the history of the ICC, Wike traced its origin to a crisis that forced Nigeria to host an emergency OAU meeting in the 1980s. He criticized the mismanagement of the facility, stating that it was previously handed to an individual who profited while it collapsed. He emphasized that the FCT Administration took a tough but necessary decision, reclaiming the ICC despite ethnic and religious sentiments, to restore it to international standards.

“Nigeria, as the giant of Africa, must have a befitting conference center. Why should our own be different when we see top-class facilities in other countries?” Wike questioned. He praised President Tinubu’s vision, contrasting it with past administrations that neglected the facility. “By the grace of God, come May, we will all return here to celebrate, thanking Mr. President for his vision and support.”

Alongside the ICC, Wike also inspected major road construction projects, including the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) leading to Wassa, being constructed by CGC Nigeria Limited. The contractor assured that the project is on track for May completion.

However, at the N5 Road project, being handled by Julius Berger, Wike expressed satisfaction with the quality of work but doubted its completion within the same timeframe. Despite this, he reiterated the administration’s commitment to delivering critical infrastructure that would ease movement and drive economic growth in the capital city.

Wike also addressed the recent demolition of shanties in Gishiri, a move aimed at clearing the way for another critical infrastructure project set for completion within Tinubu’s second year in office. While acknowledging concerns over relocation, he urged Abuja residents to cooperate, stressing that the projects are in the public interest.

“We are here to surmount challenges, not give excuses. Residents must support these developments because they will positively impact lives and boost the city’s economy. It’s a collective sacrifice, and we are pleading with traditional rulers, youths, and communities to cooperate with contractors to ensure timely completion,” he stated.

With the rainy season approaching, Wike emphasized the urgency of completing projects while weather conditions remain favorable. “We are happy with the progress. By May ending, this will be one of the key projects Mr. President will commission,” he assured.

With these major projects nearing completion, Abuja’s infrastructure landscape is set for a significant transformation under the Tinubu administration.