Since June 10, 2025, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT)—Nigeria’s seat of power, officially known as Abuja—has experienced a historic wave of infrastructure commissioning. From long-neglected public assets to major urban roads, a bold campaign to revamp the capital city is underway, sparking discussions across Nigeria and beyond.
At the heart of this transformation is the Minister of the FCT, Barrister Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, who has matched words with action. The latest developments are not just about politics—they represent a new direction for urban renewal in Abuja.
Rehabilitating the International Conference Centre (ICC): A Symbol of Change
One of the most symbolic wins in this new wave of rehabilitation is the International Conference Centre (ICC). For years, the ICC stood as a national embarrassment, especially during high-profile international events. It hit a low point during the 2024 ECOWAS Summit, where its deplorable state reportedly prompted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to call for urgent intervention.
In response, Wike promised to bring the center back to its former glory—and he delivered.
Today, the ICC has been transformed into a facility worthy of hosting global dignitaries. It now stands as a symbol of what’s possible when leadership meets accountability. According to the FCT minister, the center will never be returned to mismanagement, as Julius Berger Nigeria Plc has taken over its full management under direct supervision from the minister’s office.
This move reflects a new maintenance culture within Nigeria’s federal system—one that prioritizes long-term sustainability over short-term politics.
13 Projects Commissioned and Counting: Abuja Enters a New Era
As of August 2025, 13 major infrastructure projects have been commissioned across the FCT. These include road expansions, bridge repairs, improved street lighting, and public facility upgrades. Each of these projects was strategically unveiled to mark President Tinubu’s second year in office—but the ripple effects are set to last far longer.
The emphasis isn’t just on beautification; it’s about fixing years of infrastructure decay that have crippled economic growth and diminished the quality of life for residents.
Why This Matters: It’s Time to Fix the Roads, Too
While the fanfare around these commissioned projects is well-deserved, Abuja’s bad road networks remain a daily struggle for thousands of commuters. Potholed streets, poor drainage systems, and traffic congestion are still part of the FCT’s daily reality—especially in satellite towns and inner districts.
If the government can restore a prestige project like the ICC, it can—and must—channel the same energy toward road rehabilitation and transport infrastructure.
The urgency to abolish bad roads in Abuja is not just a matter of convenience; it’s a question of economic productivity, public safety, and national image.
Abuja Deserves World-Class Infrastructure
As Nigeria’s capital, Abuja should set the standard for other cities. Poor infrastructure sends the wrong message to investors, tourists, and even citizens. The current transformation led by Minister Wike and supported by President Tinubu is a golden opportunity to finally end the era of bad roads in the FCT.
With projects now being handed over to competent firms like Julius Berger for long-term management, there’s hope for a sustainable model that could become the blueprint for the rest of Nigeria.
The Time to Act Is Now
The revitalization of the International Conference Centre is proof that decisive leadership can deliver results. But to truly reclaim Abuja’s glory, the fight against failed road infrastructure must become a top priority.
Residents are ready. Investors are watching. And the future of Nigeria’s capital depends on it.
It’s time to abolish bad roads in the FCT—once and for all.