News From Nigeria
How Julius Berger is reshaping infrastructural landscape of Abuja
Right from its entry into Abuja to build a modern federal capital for Nigeria in 1980, Julius Berger has remained very relevant in the infrastructural development of the seat federal government of Nigeria.
Accordingly, the company’s extensive involvement in the construction and rehabilitation of roads, bridges, and interchanges makes it to unrepentantly continue to play a vital role in shaping the city’s physical and socio-economic landscape. As the capital city grows rapidly, the strategic infrastructure projects spearheaded by Julius Berger have contributed significantly to urban development, improved transportation systems, and economic efficiency, said the Regional Manager of the company, Oliver Berger.
According to him, “we are reshaping the infrastructural landscape in the Federal Capital Territory. Right from Julius Berger entrance into Abuja in 1980 we have inspired development through partnership with the Federal Government on Largescale development. Now, we are taking infrastructural development to the next level.”
Oliver Berger listed some of the recent projects, completed and ongoing to buttress his point. He mentioned Abuja-Kubwa Expressway, Abuja International Airport Runway, Central Bank of Nigeria building, Airport Road Interchange, construction of Arterial Road N5, Rehabilitation of International Conference Centre, Asokoro Hillside Multispeciality Hospital, Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, New Headquarters, Central Roads B6/B12, Construction of the Residence of the Vice President, and Emergency Rehabilitation of FCT Minister’s residence, to name a few.
Work is in full swing on the Arterial Road N5 (Obafemi Awolowo Way), and we’re making significant strides toward delivering this vital 4.4 km infrastructure project. With box culverts, a river bridge, and the N3/N30 junction taking shape, every milestone brings us closer to enhancing connectivity and development in the region, he said; adding, at Julius Berger, our commitment to quality and efficiency drives every step of the journey.
On the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission’s new headquarters which was designed by Artec Practice Limited and being constructed by Julius Berger, the Regional Manager of the company said, with the unique touch of Julius Berger in the project’s construction, it is excellence that is speedily taking shape.
He said the masterpiece of the structure is an architectural landmark that embodies innovation, efficiency, and world-class engineering. From its sun-shielding façade to cutting-edge building systems, every detail is crafted to set new standards in functionality and design.
Pointing in the direction of the the iconic National Stadium, he said it stands as a proud testament to the power of vision, innovation, and collaboration. The architectural piece is an architectural marvel which is more than just a venue. It is a symbol of Nigeria’s commitment to excellence and its passion for sports.
During a recent visit to the International Conference Centre, ICC when he was conducted round the project site by the Regional Manager, Region Central North of the company, Oliver Berger, the minister of the FCT, Barr. Nyesom Ezenwo Wike who was obviously satisfied with the work-in-progress even as the company pledged to complete the project ahead of the planned handover date in May 2025, declared, Julius Berger’s expertise is highly commendable. They are doing a wonderful job here.
Awarded in October 2024 by the Federal Capital Development Authority, FCDA, the scope of the contract for the rehabilitation of the Centre includes, finishing, mechanical and electrical renovation, sanitary rehabilitation, façade work, furniture, ancillary buildings, roof repairs, and external work.
Julius Berger’s Road and bridge works have transformed the infrastructural outlook of Abuja, and they constructed several interchanges, such as the Airport Road Interchange, which eliminated dangerous U-turns and reduced traffic congestion. The modern traffic solutions replaced old junction systems that were inadequate for the increasing population and vehicle numbers.
These projects have combined to expand Abuja’s arterial road networks; enhanced mobility and they are easing access to various districts and the upgrades have helped maintain continuity in transport services and improved road safety.
In a rapidly growing city like Abuja, effective traffic management is crucial. Julius Berger has addressed this need by constructing several critical bridges and flyovers. The Jabi Lake Bridge and the Nyanya-Karu flyover are prime examples of how the company has alleviated traffic congestion, facilitating smoother commutes for residents and visitors alike.
One of the most significant contributions of Julius Berger to Abuja’s infrastructural landscape is road development. The company has been instrumental in the construction and rehabilitation of major highways and roads, enhancing connectivity within the city and to neighbouring regions. Notable projects include the Abuja-Kaduna Expressway and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport access road, which have improved transportation efficiency and accessibility.
Beyond transportation infrastructure, Julius Berger has played a vital role in the construction of public buildings and facilities in Abuja. The company has been involved in the development of modern educational institutions, hospitals, and government buildings, fostering a conducive environment for learning and public service. Projects such as the Nigerian National Mosque and the Nigerian National Christian Centre highlight Julius Berger’s capacity to blend functionality with architectural beauty.
As Abuja continues to expand, urban development has become essential. Julius Berger is actively involved in various urban renewal projects aimed at enhancing the city’s livability. This includes the development of parks, recreational facilities, and housing estates that cater to the growing population, ensuring that urban sprawl does not compromise the quality of life for residents.
The legal team of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has raised concerns over the use of the official mobile phone number of the Kogi Central Representative by unknown persons to impersonate her identity.
‘’It has come to our attention that our client’s official mobile phone number has been cloned and is presently being fraudulently used by unknown persons to impersonate her identity, make unsolicited calls and deliver audio messages purporting to originate from her. This development is not only alarming but also constitutes a gross violation of her privacy and a potential breach of national security’’
The legal team also called on the federal government to initiate a full-scale investigation into this matter, including forensic analysis of all suspicious activities linked to our Akpoti-Uduaghan’s phone line, with a view to unmasking and prosecuting the culprits.
‘’Our client is prepared to make her device and relevant communication data available for expert examination should your office so require’’.
A statement by M.J Numa & Partnera LLP entitled: Disclaimer concerning the cloning and unauthorized use of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, urged the Director National Cybercrimes Centre, Nigeria Police Force to initiate a full-scale investigation into the matter.
The statement issued by the firm’s managing partner, Michael Jonathan Numa, SAN condemned the compromising of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s identity and the misleading of the public.
‘’These reports collectively suggest that there is a sustained and coordinated attempt to compromise our client’s identity and possibly mislead or manipulate prominent individuals using her name and reputation. We strongly suspect the deployment of advanced cyber impersonation tools in this regard’’.
In a clear illustration, the trial attorneys and transaction advisors said Ifedayo Adams Adedipe, SAN, a senior member of the inner Bar recently contacted Numa to report a suspicious telephone call he received from Akpoti-Uduaghan’s known phone number.
‘’During the said call, the voice at the other end claimed that someone would contact him shortly thereafter. Similarly, the Area Commander of the Maitama Area Command placed a call to our client, stating that she was returning a call earlier received from her number. Our client unequivocally denies initiating either of these communications. Further reports have now been received from Mr. Seun Okinbaloye at Channels Television, who confirmed receiving a call ostensibly from our client. In that instance, the caller not only used her number but also employed voice mimicry techniques to replicate her speech patterns and intellections, thereby heightening the level of impersonation’’
Particularly, the statement denounced the use of AL and machine learning to create a synthetic replica of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s voice, the voice of former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, Senator Ben Obi, Area Commander and Maitama, ACP, Olabisi Davis.
‘’In addition, we have now confirmed that Honourable Emmanuel Ekon of Akwa Ibom State, Senator Ben Obi, former Vice-Presidential Candidate, Chief John Odigie Oyegun, former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress and Allen Onyema, Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace’’
The law firm urged Nigerians to treat with extreme caution any phone call audio recording message which appears to emanate from Akpoti-Uduaghan.
‘’We therefore issue this formal disclaimer on our client’s behalf. For the avoidance of doubt, any phone call audio recording message or communication which appears to emanate from Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s number or which purports to be made by her but is not directly verified by her or through this law firm should be treated with extreme caution and discarded’’.
4th June 2025
The Director,
National Cybercrimes Centre,
Nigeria Police Force,
Diplomatic Drive,
Central Business District,
Abuja. FCT.
Dear Sir,
RE: DISCLAIMER CONCERNING THE CLONING AND UNAUTHORISED USE OF OUR CLIENT’S PHONE NUMBER – SENATOR NATASHA AKPOTI-UDUAGHAN
We continue to represent Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan hereinafter referred to as “our Client” and write on her firm instruction.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Nyesom Wike, has been praised for imagining a different future for the nation’s capital, revitalizing and modernizing the city providing development opportunities for women and youths and strengthening democracy and effective governance in the country.
He was also applauded for promoting the country’s strategic interests, advancing fundamental values and supporting President Bola Tinubu in his effort to transform the country.
‘’Chief Nyesom Wike is an innovative thinker. He is doing a good job, and it is time for Nigerians to celebrate him’’
The Chief Executive Officer of Akogate Group, Felix Aganbi, made this commendation at the weekend.
He applauded Wike for creating a smart city and rational individuals, raising the living standard of villagers and doing his best as a political leader in the country.
‘’The Akogate smart streetlight is the first of its kind in Abuja. It is enhancing the safety and well-being of the Federal Capital Territory, contributing to a brighter and more secure environment, improving night life visibility, deterring crime, fostering social interaction and stimulating economic growth by allowing businesses to operate longer hours’’
Aganbi advised Nigerians to reassess their words and attitudes toward the federal government and people working for the progress of the country.
The Akogate Chief Executive Officer spoke during the installation of streetlights in Abuja.
He said Wike was bringing sanity into Abuja and giving the good people of the Federal Capital territory and Rivers State the tools and conditions to make the most of their own lives.
‘’Chief Nyesom Wike is developing the capacities inherent in people, making life better for FCT residents and increasing the options open to them’’
The business magnate praised Wike for his role in politics, education, economic development and crime control.
He emphasized investors’ confidence in the country’s reliability, the good chemistry between President Bola Tinubu and Wike and the minister’s steadfast commitment to developing the Federal Capital Territory.
The gifted entrepreneur also underscored Wike’s stellar service, obvious courage and openness to new ideas from all quarters.
‘’Chief Nyesom Wike is hardworking, smart and kind. He is also a source of good ideas’’
He stressed on the importance of rules, greater investment, and spirit of teamwork.
Wike, a leading figure in the areas of infrastructure, welfare and economic development was appointed by President Tinubu in 2023.