President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday urged the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to remain undistracted by critics.
Speaking at the inauguration of the newly refurbished International Conference Centre in Abuja, now renamed the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, the President emphasized the importance of transformative leadership and modern infrastructure in shaping Nigeria’s development trajectory.
In a gesture that blended praise with counsel, Tinubu told Wike: “Don’t pay attention to busybodies and bystanders. Whatever they say, continue your good work. You are a transformational leader. You have the vision, foresight, and determination to succeed.”
The President, visibly pleased with the facelift given to the historic facility, described the renovation as emblematic of his administration’s broader ambition to redefine public service delivery.
“This project is part of our determined effort to change the way we do things, to reflect who we are as a people of quality, character, and great spirit,” Tinubu said. “And I am glad, Nyesom Wike, you are reflecting that.”
He reaffirmed his government’s commitment to infrastructure development under the Renewed Hope Agenda, stressing that transportation, healthcare, education, energy, and urban development remain critical sectors for national growth.
“Modern infrastructure is the backbone of a thriving economy in an inclusive and progressive society,” Tinubu added.
The President also used the occasion to set a firm tone regarding the future use of the facility, warning against entitlement culture within the political class. “You must obey what the landlord says. If you want to use this place, you’re going to pay for it,” he stated, reinforcing the FCT Minister’s earlier position that the halls would attract usage fees, regardless of status.
The event, held in the heart of the capital, was attended by a number of high-ranking officials, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Minister of Finance and Economy Wale Edun, and Minister of Justice Lateef Fagbemi.
Nyesom Wike, a key figure in the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and former two-term governor of Rivers State, was appointed FCT Minister in August 2023, a move that sparked debate across party lines. His presence in an All Progressives Congress (APC)-led cabinet has been seen by some as symbolic of Tinubu’s pragmatic approach to governance.
Also present at the event was Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, appointed Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in October 2024. Her inclusion marked another example of cross-party collaboration, given her affiliation with the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).
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