By John Umeh
Prominent lawyer and human rights activist Deji Adeyanju has shared his personal experience after visiting the newly refurbished Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre (ICC) in Abuja, which recently underwent a controversial facelift reportedly costing ₦39 billion.
Adeyanju, known for his fearless advocacy and criticism of government excesses, took to social media on Friday to document his observations, sparking renewed public debate over the justification and transparency of the multi-billion-naira renovation project.
In his post, Adeyanju described the facility as “impressively upgraded,” noting that the new structure reflects modern architectural aesthetics, improved interior designs, and state-of-the-art conference amenities. However, he was quick to question whether the ₦39 billion price tag was justifiable — especially in light of Nigeria’s ongoing economic challenges and growing public debt.
“I’ve just toured the newly renovated Bola Tinubu ICC. Beautiful work, no doubt — but does it truly warrant ₦39 billion of public funds? Our priorities as a country remain questionable,” Adeyanju wrote.
The lawyer also raised concerns about the transparency of the contract process, urging anti-corruption agencies and the National Assembly to demand a full breakdown of the expenditure and verify value-for-money compliance. He emphasized the need for Nigerians to hold leaders accountable for spending that appears excessive or out of touch with pressing national issues such as poverty, insecurity, and the failing healthcare system.
Adeyanju’s commentary quickly went viral, drawing mixed reactions from the public. While some praised the facility’s upgrade as a necessary step toward global standards, many Nigerians echoed his sentiments, expressing outrage over the cost of the renovation in a country where basic infrastructure remains dilapidated.
The Bola Tinubu ICC, named in honor of Nigeria’s current president, is a key venue for high-profile national and international events. Government officials have defended the renovation cost, claiming the project aimed to reposition Nigeria as a leading destination for global conferences and summits.
Still, the controversy continues to grow, fueled by concerns over inflated government contracts and inadequate public consultation. As Adeyanju’s firsthand review circulates, it has intensified calls for transparency, independent audit reports, and greater citizen oversight of large public projects.
For Adeyanju, the visit was not just about aesthetics but accountability. “Nigeria deserves beautiful spaces,” he said, “but not at the cost of accountability, and certainly not at the expense of the people’s needs.”
His bold assessment has once again positioned him at the center of Nigeria’s political conscience — and reignited a vital conversation about how public funds are spent in a struggling economy.
