Isaac Fayose, a businessman and social commentator, has spoken out against the ₦39 billion reportedly spent to renovate the International Conference Centre in Abuja. He reminded the public that the building was first constructed in 1991 during General Babangida’s government for just ₦240 million.

He described the massive cost as unnecessary and called it a project driven by pride rather than need. Fayose questioned why the government would approve such spending at a time when the country is going through serious economic problems.

“There’s a deeper problem here,” Fayose warned. “It’s not just about the money—it’s about what we value as a nation. While people are struggling to survive, we are spending billions on ego and self-glorification.”

Fayose criticized the current administration for focusing on expensive projects like this while ordinary Nigerians are struggling with high prices and inflation. He believes that the money could have been better used to solve more urgent issues affecting people’s daily lives.

“The ICC was built from the ground up in 1991 with just ₦240 million—a full, functional national monument,” Fayose said. 

“Now in 2025, ₦39 billion is being used not to build, but simply to renovate the same structure.”

“This isn’t about national development or preserving legacy,” 

“This is about rewriting history with paint, bricks, and personal branding.”

It was also revealed that the centre has now been renamed. It is now called the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre.