Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, says he has no regrets about renaming the Abuja International Conference Centre after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, despite growing public backlash.

Speaking on Friday during the inauguration of the 15-kilometre left-hand service carriageway of the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) Stage II in Abuja, Wike dismissed the criticism, describing opponents of the move as people “lacking good taste and historical perspective.”

The minister’s remarks come days after the reopening of the renovated conference centre, which drew public outcry over the decision to rename the landmark and the reported N39 billion spent on its rehabilitation. Critics labelled the expenditure a misplaced priority amid economic hardship.

Wike, however, defended the project and renaming, arguing that it aligns with Nigeria’s tradition of honouring leaders irrespective of who initiated a project.
“Landmark facilities like the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport and Moshood Abiola National Stadium were named after leaders who didn’t build them,” he said.
“I have done it, and I have no regret at all. Everything in that centre was changed except the structure itself.”

Addressing the concerns about the renovation cost, the former Rivers State governor dismissed comparisons to the original N240 million used to build the centre in 1991.
“They talk of N240 million in 1991. What was the exchange rate then compared to 2025?” he asked. “If you love this country, you won’t criticise this rehabilitation.”

He further argued that Nigeria deserves world-class infrastructure and said Tinubu’s vision and leadership should be applauded, not condemned.
“We are the giant of Africa, and people should see what makes us that. Mr President has given us the best,” Wike added.

The comments have reignited debate over government spending priorities and the symbolism of naming public monuments after sitting presidents.