Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has defended the ₦39 billion spent on renovating the International Conference Centre (ICC) in Abuja, dismissing criticisms over the cost as lacking appreciation for quality.
Wike made the remarks on Friday during the commissioning of the newly completed Left-Hand Service Carriageway in the FCT. He stated that the extensive rehabilitation of the facility involved replacing nearly every component except the blockwork.
Responding to concerns about the high cost, Wike pointed out that the original construction of the ICC in 1991 under the military administration of General Ibrahim Babangida cost ₦240 million, but emphasized that current economic realities and inflation have significantly driven up construction costs.
“People who criticise the amount spent don’t have good taste,” Wike said, insisting the renovation reflects the standard expected of a facility of such national importance.
