JUST IN: Tinubu mandates payment for use of newly rehabilitated International Conference Centre

By Kunle Sanni

President Bola Tinubu has ordered that all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) must pay to use the newly renovated Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja, emphasizing the need for financial discipline and sustainability.

The directive came on Tuesday during the official commissioning of the refurbished facility, formerly known as the Abuja International Conference Centre. The renaming was announced by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, as a recognition of President Tinubu’s leadership and infrastructural reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Speaking at the event, President Tinubu recalled his disappointment with the condition of the venue during his visit to the 2024 ECOWAS Parliament conference.

“When I attended the ECOWAS Parliament conference, the environment was dirty, disorganized, and uninhabitable,” he said. “I turned to Mr. Wike and said, ‘This does not reflect who we are.’ Today, I am very happy.”

He highlighted the strategic importance of the Centre in advancing Nigeria’s role in regional diplomacy and global engagement: “This Centre is part of our larger vision to position Nigeria as a hub for trade, diplomacy, and innovation. It must reflect excellence, and that requires discipline and maintenance.”

President Tinubu praised Julius Berger Nigeria PLC for the quality of the renovation and commended Minister Wike for completing the project within one year of its closure.

Addressing Minister Wike directly, Tinubu said, “Do not pay attention to the busybodies and bystanders. Whatever they say, continue your good work. You are a transformational leader with foresight, vision, and determination.”

Minister Wike supported the President’s directive, stressing that all users of the Centre—including government agencies—must pay for access. “No more free use. Whether you’re a ministry or a parastatal, you must pay. That’s the only way we can maintain this place,” he said.