President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a directive mandating all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to pay for the use of the newly renovated Abuja International Conference Centre. The facility, now renamed the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre by Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike, underwent an extensive N39 billion transformation.
This directive marks a significant policy shift aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s non-oil revenue sources. With dwindling oil revenues, the administration is strategically leveraging existing infrastructure to stimulate the economy. By commercializing access to the conference centre, the government expects to unlock new financial streams while optimizing the use of a high-value national asset.
The centre, fully upgraded with modern amenities and state-of-the-art infrastructure, is now positioned as a premier destination for hosting international conferences, exhibitions, and summits. Its relaunch aims to attract both local and global events, reinforcing Abuja’s status as a regional hub for business and diplomacy.
The president's directive is not only expected to drive revenue but also to catalyze job creation and increase commercial activity in the FCT. Industry experts suggest this could be a turning point for Nigeria’s underdeveloped conference tourism sector, long considered an untapped goldmine.
Public opinion on the move has been mixed. Supporters applaud the initiative as a forward-thinking strategy to monetize federal assets and stimulate sustainable development. Critics, however, have questioned the long-term viability and accessibility of the project for government institutions and stakeholders.
Regardless of the debate, the government’s decision aligns with its broader goal of diversifying the national economy. By transforming the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre into a revenue-yielding asset, the administration underscores its commitment to innovation in public sector management and tourism development.
Nigeria has hosted several prominent events in recent years, including the African Union Summit and the World Economic Forum, signaling growing international interest in the country. The revamped conference centre is expected to attract even more high-profile gatherings, enhancing Nigeria’s global reputation while delivering measurable economic impact.