Ike Odenigwe: Why we chose Julius Berger for Abuja Centenary City project

Ike Odenigwe, managing director of Abuja Centenary City, says Julius Berger Nigeria Plc was selected for the  project because of its proven record of quality work.

Odenigwe spoke last week during the signing of the contract for phase one of the primary infrastructure of the project.

He said the signing marks the official resumption of construction after an 11-year pause.

“The company’s legendary quality work on several projects across the country speaks volumes about its abilities,” Odenigwe said.

He challenged Julius Berger to deliver beyond its previous records.

Odenigwe described the Centenary City as Abuja’s foremost urban renewal initiative designed to attract international investment and offer a multinational lifestyle hub.

He said the project will include five-star hotels, luxury residences, the International Commerce Centre, the Centenary International Convention Centre, the Mall of Africa, and a championship golf course.

Peer Lubasch, managing director of Julius Berger, said the company is committed to delivering a project that blends modern excellence with Nigeria’s cultural heritage.

“Centenary City is more than an urban development. It is an investment in the future of Abuja and the Federal Capital Territory; a catalyst for jobs, business opportunities and international investment,” Lubasch said.

He recalled that Julius Berger’s relationship with the project began in 2014 when it was launched as a bold statement of Nigeria’s ambition.

“For over a decade, we have watched and supported its transformation from a bold idea to reality,” Lubasch said.

He added that the new contract covers a 4.31 kilometre international standard dual carriageway with utilities and media lines.

“It is not just a road. It is the first major artery of this great city, opening access to the first development phase and laying the foundation for its growth,” he said.

Lubasch assured that Julius Berger will bring the same precision and quality that have made it a trusted name for over six decades.

“When you see this road completed, you will want to see many more kilometres of Julius Berger roads in this extraordinary city,” he said.

Lubasch was accompanied to the signing ceremony by Oliver Berger, Julius Berger’s regional manager for central and north, and other company officials.

Conceived in 2014 during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan to mark Nigeria’s centenary, the project was stalled by legal setbacks, revoked land titles and administrative delays.

On Tuesday, Odenigwe announced that the phase 1 primary infrastructure of the project would cost N750 billion.