President Tinubu Commissions N39bn Renovated Landmark Ahead of Democracy Day
In a symbolic gesture that ties leadership to legacy, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday commissioned the newly renovated International Conference Centre (ICC) in Abuja — a historic edifice now renamed the Bola Tinubu International Conference Centre.
The event, which drew dignitaries from across Nigeria’s political spectrum, marked the completion of a N39 billion transformation of one of the nation's most iconic venues. The renovation began in April 2024, fast-tracked to coincide with preparations for this year’s Democracy Day celebrations.
Present at the ceremony were high-ranking officials, including the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barr. Nyesom Wike, who supervised the project's execution, and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who described the naming of the centre as “a fitting tribute to a leader who has shown immense courage and dedication to the Nigerian project.”
Presidential Remarks and Vision
Speaking at the commissioning, President Tinubu expressed appreciation for the gesture and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to infrastructural development and national renewal.
“This centre has long been a symbol of Nigeria’s unity, where voices from across our diverse regions have echoed in dialogue, deliberation, and national progress. I am honoured by this renaming, but I am more honoured by the trust and aspirations of the Nigerian people,” he said.
Minister Wike: “A Capital Reimagined”
Minister Wike noted that the renovation of the conference centre was part of a broader effort to transform Abuja into a truly global capital.
“This is not just a renovation; this is a rebranding of our capital’s global identity. The new Bola Tinubu International Conference Centre is now equipped with modern facilities that meet international standards,” Wike declared.
The refurbished facility now boasts upgraded conference halls, cutting-edge audio-visual equipment, enhanced security architecture, and expanded parking space. It is expected to host high-level international summits, economic forums, and cultural gatherings, further positioning Abuja as a preferred destination for global events.
Akpabio: “A Leader Worthy of National Tribute”
Senate President Akpabio hailed the renaming as “an act of gratitude to a man whose reforms have repositioned Nigeria on the global stage.”
“President Tinubu’s courage in making difficult but necessary decisions — from subsidy removal to public sector reforms — deserves more than commendation; it deserves preservation in our national landmarks,” he said.
Mixed Reactions From Citizens and Civil Society
While government officials praised the move, the renaming has sparked a wave of mixed reactions from civil society, opposition leaders, and ordinary Nigerians.
Praise and Optimism
Supporters of President Tinubu see the renaming as justified, citing his efforts to overhaul public institutions and reposition the economy despite ongoing challenges.
“He is a man of bold reforms. Naming a national monument after him while he is alive serves as an encouragement to leaders who dare to take hard decisions for the country's future,” said Abubakar Suleiman, a political analyst based in Lagos.
Criticism and Timing Concerns
However, some voices from the opposition and civil society raised concerns over the timing and symbolism of the renaming.
“We are in the middle of an economic crisis, with citizens struggling to feed. This is not the time for self-glorification. The N39 billion spent on renovations could have been channelled into palliatives or healthcare,” argued Dr. Ngozi Umeh, a spokesperson for the Civic Action Forum for Democracy.
“Renaming national monuments after serving presidents is a dangerous trend. It sends the wrong message about governance and public legacy,” said Dele Awolowo, a lawyer and constitutional affairs commentator.
Youth Perspectives
Among the youth demographic, opinions are equally divided.
“I appreciate the upgraded facility, but we need jobs and scholarships, not marble plaques,” said Hadiza Musa, a university graduate from Kaduna.
Others, however, applauded the government for improving national infrastructure.
“It’s not just about the name; it’s about the fact that something visible has changed for the better. Abuja now has a conference centre that reflects our status as the giant of Africa,” said Tolu Ajayi, a young entrepreneur.
A Legacy in Concrete and Controversy
Originally inaugurated in 1991, the International Conference Centre has hosted landmark national events for over three decades. Renaming it after President Tinubu — while seen by many as deserved — has also ignited a national conversation about leadership, legacy, and the power of symbolism in Nigerian politics.
As the newly named Bola Tinubu International Conference Centre prepares to host this year’s Democracy Day celebrations, it stands as both a gleaming symbol of infrastructural renewal and a lightning rod for debates on how best to honour leaders in a democracy still defining its identity.