Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has ordered Julius Berger, Abuja Investment Company Ltd (AICL), and the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) to resolve discrepancies identified in the execution of the Abuja International Conference Centre (AICC) rehabilitation contract.
Wike expressed concerns over discrepancies in the execution of the Abuja International Conference Centre (AICC) rehabilitation contract during an inspection of the project in Abuja on Wednesday.
The minister urged the heads of the parties involved to provide explanations for the ongoing issues.
Wike also expressed surprise that the contract for supplying furniture to the conference hall had been awarded to another company.
He however, commended Julius Berger for the quality of work completed so far, the minister questioned why the furnishing contract had been removed from them.
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Wike stated, “The work was progressing as expected, but this afternoon we identified an issue regarding the furniture for the conference hall. I was surprised to learn that a different contractor had been assigned to this task, which is unacceptable. The entire project was awarded to Julius Berger, and I cannot accept varying qualities.
“That’s why I’ve summoned the officials to explain who authorized this change, as I approved the contract and am aware of the financial details involved. If it’s being said that Abuja Investment is handling it, then who will bear the cost?
“I will not accept this, and rest assured, if any substandard work has been done, I won’t hesitate to take strong action. No one will be above scrutiny,” he emphasized.
Wike emphasised that he would not allow two different contractors to furnish the same building, stating that this could compromise the overall quality of the project.
“We cannot have the gallery furnished by Julius Berger and the conference hall by another company. That is unacceptable to me,” he said. “No one should act in a way that goes against what we’ve agreed upon.”
The minister also inspected the ongoing construction of the Interchange at NICON Junction and the development of Shehu Shagari Way (N16), which will connect with Wole Soyinka Way.
He expressed satisfaction with the progress and quality of the work, noting that the project would be ready for inauguration in May.
Wike assured residents in the area that the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) would do everything necessary to ensure the projects were completed on time.
It would be recalled that the contract for the full rehabilitation of the Abuja International Conference Centre (AICC) was awarded to Julius Berger in April 2024.
