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– “We stand strong”, says confident MD Lars Richter
Chairman of the Board of foremost engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria PLC, Mr. Mutiu Sunmonu, CON has said that though the company had challenges in the 2021 financial year, it excelled and overcame the challenges by dint of hard work and unflinching commitment to success on the part of the management and staff of the company.
He spoke just as the Managing Director, Engr Dr. Lars Richter disclosed that the company stood strong in the year under review even as the company’s shareholders approved a N2.50k per share dividends.
Speaking at the 52nd Annual General Meeting of the company Saturday in Abuja, the Chairman presented the Consolidated Financial Statements of the year under review saying that within the period, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc performed positively despite the numerous macro-economic hiccups which affected businesses during the year. He added that the company achieved exceptional financial performance, meeting targets for both revenue and cash flow. “One for those challenges, of course is COVID-19, which remains ever present in our personal and professional lives – with prolonged consequences. Unfortunately, we are unable to put this virus behind us just yet,” the Chairman said.
However, the Chairman did not mince words in declaring that, “while 2021 was certainly a challenging year, more positively, it was also a dynamic and industrious year,” adding that, “within our core construction business, we made meaningful progress across our portfolio of private and public projects”. He listed the projects to include the International Worship Centre, Uyo, the Office of the National Security Adviser in Abuja, the Bodo-Bonny Road as well as infrastructure projects in Lagos state and in Rivers state, where Julius Berger have supported the State Governments to achieve a remarkable infrastructure transformation within the year.” Specifically, Dr Richter also listed some successfully commissioned major projects to include the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation office, several flyovers and civil infrastructural works in Port Harcourt; and the Rehabilitated Control Towers at Tincan Island and the Lagos Port Complex.
Underscoring the shining example of the trust the federal government placed on Julius Berger, the Chairman harped on the priority projects of the government being financed via the Presidential Infrastructure Development Fund at an excellent pace, Mr. Sunmonu said that the company forged ahead with all of them including the Second River Niger Bridge and the Abuja-Kano Road “ with our values, standards and capacities remaining core to our competitive edge.”
Stating that Julius Berger Nigeria Plc closed for the year under review “with a Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate of 0.19, equivalent to our 2020 results”, the Chairman added that the various subsidiaries of the Group also made reasonable progress in 2021.
Mr. Sunmonu said, “the year 2021 has been largely positive, with many great accomplishments to reflect on”, forecasting with good confidence that “…this year 2022, we will continue to work hard, remain resilient and champion progress in regard to the potentials ahead of us. Furthermore, Sunmonu also said, “We do not underestimate the effort or the endeavour it will take to achieve our vision, but we also do not underestimate our collective diligence and determination.”
In his own remarks to shareholders at the AGM, the Managing Director, Engr. Dr Lars Richter built on the Chairman’s earlier remarks saying that the three pillars of Julius Berger’s business strategy, “the core business, group subsidiaries and diversification” have remained central to all operations even as he shared an update on the company’s sustainability and inclusivity efforts, as well as on the company’s outlook for 2022 and beyond.
The Managing Director firmly declared that “Julius Berger continues to stand strong, our values are firmly in place and our reputation for reliable and quality delivery remains unmatched…. And within our core business we continue to realize meaningful progress across our portfolio of projects as a foundation for our continued success and growth.”
On the business trajectory of the company, Richter said Julius Berger continues to acquire new projects for major clients such as the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, Lagos and Port Harcourt State, the Federal Ministry of Works & Housing and the Central Bank of Nigeria.
Richter also celebrated Julius Berger’s achievement with regard to the company’s recertification of its Quality Management in accordance with ISO 9001:2015, “…proving that our commitment to quality and process continues to stand strong.” Richter further stated that Julius Berger continues to “…bolster the foundations of its competitive edge, manpower and machine power, with the modernization of our Human Resources structure and strategy and the update and expansion of our equipment fleet; both major investments that will payback in many folds, both today and in future.” To emphasize the worthy development, Richter, cited the company’s recent operational “rollout of more equipment to support the success of the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Road.”
On the performance of the company in 2021, the Managing Director said that, as a group Julius Berger has achieved an overall exceptional financial performance in 2021 ”meeting targets for both revenue and cash flow; enabling the company to extend a dividend payment to you, our loyal shareholders.”
Enumerating the specific challenges faced by the company in 2021, Dr Lars Richter listed those stemming from the indirect impacts and aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as “global procurement where prices for logistics remain elevated, shortages and delays remain a reality and as a result, prices for raw materials and goods continue to increase.”
The Ukrainian war, Engr. Richter added, compounded supply chain disruptions, with prices soaring for other essential building materials like steel, sand and wood just as it has led to increases in the price of crude oil. “For us in Nigeria, the higher cost of diesel combined with fuel scarcity, has led to another layer of price increase… an extraordinary surge in transport costs,” he added. Dr Richter also informed shareholders that the greatest and most hard-hitting challenge the company continues to face is the sustained shortage of FOREX. He described the forex scarcity as “…a critical crisis which has persisted with far reaching negative impact on the economy generally and on Julius Berger specifically, as it creates major and substantial financial losses.” He, however, disclosed that management was able to put in place robust, resilient and business continuity planning; providing preparation and strategies to navigate the key risk.
Three directors including Chairman Mutiu Sunmomu, CON, Mrs Belinda Ajoke Disu, CAL, and Mrs Gadys O. Talabi were also re-elected by Shareholders to the Board of the company at the 52nd Annual General Meeting in Abuja.
The highlight of the event was when Shareholders voted overwhelmingly for a N2.50 per share dividend owned compared to the 50kobo per share paid out last financial year. This year’s dividend payout is the highest shareholders are receiving in the last five years. Happy Shareholders overwhelmingly commended the company’s management for excellent performance.
JULIUS BERGER INCREASES CSR EFFORT, BUILDS MORE WATER BOREHOLES AND TOILETS FOR SCHOOLS WITHIN ABUJA-KANO ROAD PROJECT CORRIDOR
In the company’s continuing and strong commitment to its Corporate Social Responsibility, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc again donated boreholes and toilets to schools on its Abuja-Kano Road Project corridor.
Students of Government Day Secondary School, Sabon Wuse, Tafa L.G.A, were full of excitement, when Julius Berger Nigeria Plc notched up its CSR efforts to their schools in the company’s determined bid to protect and preserve the health and wellbeing of the students by providing them with water boreholes and toilets.
After a brief introduction by the leader of Julius Berger CSR team, Engr. Yusuf Ibrahim, the Principal of the school, Saidu B.A. Wuse said, “the importance of water borehole and toilets in the school environment cannot be over emphasized, especially with the incessant rise in cholera, adding that “…it is a very kind gesture being exhibited by the construction company. We are indeed very pleased with the outstanding contributions made by Julius Berger. On behalf of the Management and students, we say a very big thank you to Julius Berger.”
The PTA Chairman, Hon. Mohammed Akawu, who was present at the commissioning of the project said, “we are very excited for the compassionate steps taken by Julius Berger. Looking at the smiles on our children’s faces gives me so much happiness. We appreciate God first and then Julius Berger for what they have done today. The Head girl of the school, Miss Emmanuel Vivian, who was also present at the event said, “I am one of the happy and thankful students here today, especially being able to see that my school now have water borehole and hygienic toilets. I want to thank Julius Berger Nigeria Plc for bringing borehole to not just our school, but also our community.”
At the Government Day Secondary School, Gujeni Kagarko L.G.A, Kaduna State, Julius Berger’s CSR efforts were also commended and gratefully acknowledged by the school management and the students.
The Head Teacher of the school, Musa D. Jasper, was effusive with thanks and prayers for Julius Berger. “…I want to specially thank Julius Berger Nigeria Plc for providing us with water boreholes and toilets. This is in no way a small project, or something we should take for granted; this has been one of the things we could not afford for our children and Julius Berger has given it to us on a platter. On behalf of the staff, parents and the pupils of Government Day Secondary School, Gujeni, I say thank you.
The representative of the Village Head, Reverend Ishako Emmanuel, said, “The Village Head extends his gratitude to the management of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc for the newly constructed borehole and toilets. We also want to use this opportunity to thank the entire management of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc. The company, indeed, created a lasting legacy in our hearts and Community.”
The Chairman of the School Base Management Committee, SBMC, Mr. Umar Sambo, who was present at the event, thanked the company also for the CSR projects gifted to the schools and communities. adding that, “Words won’t be able to show how happy we feel. I pray God rewards the company and continuously bless the works of their hands. Once again, Thank You.”
The Julius Berger delegation to the event was led by the AKR Project Coordinator, Engr. Yusuf Ibrahim. Other JBN Officials include Akeem Lawal, Michael Ashofor; and Olivia Uzoma.
Former governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator Godswill Akpabio has been described as ‘’a man of extraordinary courage, wisdom and generosity’’
‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio is the people’s rallying point and source of inspiration. We are confident that he’ll win the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential primaries ’’ a release by Southern and Northern APC leaders Friday night said.
The North-South leaders in a statement in Abuja applauded APC stakeholders for backing the former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs
‘’The chances of Senator Akpabio getting the presidential nomination are high. A lot of delegates are working hard for the emergence of Akpabio as the party’s presidential candidate’’
The statement by the Chairman of North-South Presidential Movement (NSPM), Alhaji Umaru Sarki announced the official position of the Southern and Northern APC stakeholders on Akpabio and the ruling party’s presidential primaries.
‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio is set for a resounding victory’’
They praised the former Senate Minority leader for transforming Akwa Ibom to a model State.
‘’Under him, Akwa Ibom evolved into one of the most progressive States of Nigeria’’.
The leaders applauded Akpabio for devoting his indomitable energy, brilliant mind and ardent spirit towards the transformation of the country.
‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio is completely detribalised. He loves Nigeria more than any other thing’’
The leaders also commended Akpabio for making an appreciable difference in the Niger Delta.
The statement emphasised Akpabio’s impressive credentials, personal qualities and character, administrative skills, numerous achievements and consistency in standing up always on the side of the people
‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio has gained ground in the six geo-political zones. We are going to make him APC presidential candidate’’ the statement added.
A former National Chairman of Mega Progressives People’s Party (MPPP), Hon Aderemi Banjo, on Sunday described presidential hopeful, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as ‘’a man of noble character, true Nigerian and promoter of youth development’’.
‘’Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu is the perfect man for the presidential job’’.
Banjo reacted in Lagos to the innuendoes and the allegations that have been made in the press, Tinubu’s leading role in the fall of Dr Goodluck Jonathan in 2015 and the need to attract the kind of confidence that is vital for investment and growth.
He called on prominent APC leaders in the country to reflect on the agreement committing leading members of the party to accepting Tinubu as the flag bearer in 2023
In a statement Sunday, Banjo advised notable leaders to focus on the things that promote unity in the nation and the ruling party rather than on issues that breed feuds and division.
The party leader noted that Buhari would not have been APC presidential flag bearer in 2014 and winner of the 2015 and 2019 elections.
Titled “Asiwaju: The political encyclopaedia against all intrigues”, Banjo attributed Buhari’s political victory in 2015 and 2019 to Tinubu.
He urged the ruling party to assess APC presidential aspirants based on the contributions to their states.
He also stated that Tinubu has the potential to build a strong economy and provide the nucleus of development for the country.
Particularly, he credited the detribalised nature of Lagos State, religious friendly environment, proactive management of emergency and infrastructural development to Tinubu.
‘Aspirants not having experience in the management of Lagos State are not fit to be president of Nigeria’’.
Banjo who is currently a chieftain of the ruling party recollected Tinubu’s appointment of Yemi Osinbajo, Rauf Aregbesola and Ben Akabueze as commissioners.
He also recollected the Patriotic Electoral Alliance of Nigeria , the 33 political parties endorsed the candidacy of Dr Goodluck Jonathan and the role of the South-West governors.
The APC stalwart urged Buhari to remember Jonathan’s blunder and the failure of the PDP in 2015.
He appealed to delegates to vote Tinubu as the APC presidential candidate.
The statement also emphasised APC’s victory in 2023, unity, scheme of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and development of the country.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s victory, a good omen – Kogi Central Leaders
Notable Kogi State leaders on Thursday reacted to the victory of Chief Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan in Wednesday’s senatorial primary, saying it was ‘’a great result’’
‘’Chief Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has done enough to endear herself to every household. She will set straight Kogi Central’s journey to greatness and deliver the dividends of democracy to the people’’
The leaders in a statement in Lagos described the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) senatorial flag bearer as a visionary leader, bridge builder, stickler for excellence and blessing to Kogi State.
‘’Chief Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is articulate, knowledgeable and gentle. She has contributed so much to elevate the status of Ebiraland’’
The leaders said nothing would stop Akpoti-uduaghan from clinching the Kogi Central Senatorial seat in 2023.
‘’Kogi Central is PDP. Chief Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has crowd-pulling power like no one else in Kogi politics. We strongly believe in her candidacy. We are just waiting for the 2023 elections. We know she will win’’
Signed by the Chairman of Ebira National Forum (ENF), Chief Itopa Jatto, the respectable Ebira leaders stated that the political terrain in Kogi Central Senatorial District has started taking a different shape.
‘’We want to see a more human side to the Government. Kogi Central All Progressives Congress (APC) is already heading for the rocks’’
‘’Chief Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is straightforward and absolutely reliable. We will definitely vote PDP in 2023. She will use the opportunity of going to the Senate to transform Kogi Central, improve the standard of living of the people, engender prosperity and keep the dream of the Ajaokuta Steel Plant alive’’ the statement added.
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Influential Northern politicians on Sunday described All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential hopeful, Senator Godswill Akpabio as a consummate administrator, visionary leader, thoroughbred democrat and prudent manager of human and material resources.
‘’The presidential contest is not a dinner party. It is rough and costly. However, Senator Godswill Akpabio will be overwhelmingly elected by the APC delegates to be the ruling party’s presidential candidate’’.
Leader of Northern People’s Forum (NPF), Alhaji Gambo Aminu, made the views of the Northern leaders known in a press statement issued Sunday morning in Sokoto.
‘’Northerners are more disposed to Akpabio because of his antecedents’’
The leaders agreed to work for the election of Akpabio as the country’s president in 2023’’
‘’The dream of a greater Nigeria will be realised with an Akpabio Presidency. There will also be fiscal discipline, economic growth, sustainable supply of petroleum products everywhere in Nigeria, spending on the right economic priorities, encouragement of private sector investment and provision of basic services’’
The key players in the politics of the North-West, North-East and North-Central praised Akpabio to high heavens for his sterling leadership qualities, devotion to service to the people and the fatherland, commitment to national unity, social stability and economic development.
‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio is a credible politician. He is focused and down to earth’’
The leaders extolled the former Akwa Ibom State governor for the dividends of democracy in the Niger Delta, his resounding achievements in education, health, agriculture, industry, public works, utilities, transport, poverty alleviation and other sectors of service delivery.
They also acknowledged Akpabio’s positive contribution to peace and development in the Niger Delta and Nigeria at large.
The statement highlighted Akpabio’s intellectual capacity, vision, organizational skills, administrative techniques and commitment to the greatness of Nigeria.
Specifically, the northern politicians applauded Akpabio for enhancing the political empowerment of women and youths, carrying out the business of governance in an open, participatory and transparent atmosphere and improving the standard of living of the people.
South-South leaders on Friday tipped the former governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator Godswill Akpabio as the likely president of the country come 2023.
‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio appears the only presidential aspirant whose national interest, integrity and reputation tower far above all other contestants’’
They also described Akpabio’s presidential declaration as a good omen for Nigeria’s democracy.
The leaders in a statement in Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State, applauded Akpabio for articulating issues affecting the South-South geo-political zone and righting historical wrongs in the Niger Delta.
They said Akpabio would address security challenges, make life abundant for Nigerians, provide employment for the youths and succor to women.
‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio could comfortably lead Nigeria to the Promised Land. He will run an economy driven by the private sector, improve the business environment, empower the people and ensure good governance and unity in Nigeria’’
The statement signed by the Chairman of South-South Front (SSF), Chief John Harry, said there were no doubts as to whether Akpabio would occupy the presidential seat in 2023.
‘’There are several reasons why Akpabio should be the country’s next president. The Minister of Niger Delta is known to possess an uncanny organizational ability and an awesome political structure. Practically, all over the region, his development thrust is there for all to see. All the aspirants put together cannot beat Akpabio’’
The statement underscored Akpabio’s enviable performance, hard work, ability, competence and perseverance.
‘’Northerners are looking up to Akpabio. The South-West hope is in Akpabio. The South-East people want Akpabio to be APC presidential flag-bearer. He has enough credentials to emerge president in 2023’’
The leaders demanded that the South-South geo-political zone should produce the next president of Nigeria in 2023
They said Akpabio has the record to govern Nigeria and that the people of the South-South, South-East and South-West were ready to take their destiny in their hands through Akpabio in the 2023 polls.
‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio has ideas and understands the current challenges. He is capable of devoting himself to the people of Nigeria’’
The leaders also reeled out support programmes and plans for Akpabio’s presidential election bid.
They listed a two week-long rally tagged Akpabio’s Weeks of Excellence to be held in the six geo-political zones, distribution of branded T-shirts and Face Caps and exclusive dinner with APC delegates in Abuja.
…Governor Sanwoolu, His Imperial Majesty Ooni of Ife, lauds AFP’s matchless quality
Abuja Furniture Product, AFP, the furniture and furnishing arm of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc weekend won the ‘Recognition for Corinthian Partnership Award’ of the Nigerian Institute of Architects, Lagos State Chapter. AFP also won the ‘Company with Most Popular Product Award’ at the Lagos Architects Forum 13.0, which held inside the Expo Centre of the Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos.
Organised by the Lagos Chapter of the Nigeria Institute of Architects, the Lagos Architects Forum described the Julius Berger AFP as unique and supportive of the architectural profession even as the Chapter Chairman, Arch. David Majekodunmi described AFP’s products on display at the accompanying exhibition as, “unique, superb and uniquely lovely.”
Representative of the Governor of Lagos State at the event and Special Adviser to the state Chief Executive on Infrastructure and engineering services, Engr Mrs Aramide Adeyoye who also won an award of Excellence, praised the Lagos Chapter of the Nigeria Institute of Architects for “a well organised Forum and Exhibition.” Mrs Aramide, on behalf of Governor Babajide Sanwoolu further said, “Nigerians appreciate the contributions of architects to nation-building. Here in Lagos we always count on your support in our fight against building collapse and solid infrastructural development across the state.” The Lagos Governor also assured that the government was committed to implementing the state’s original development plan.
The Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, a builder himself, who graciously attended the event, thumbed up and commended products on display at the AFP exhibition pavilion saying that, “they are good and beautiful.”
In his speech at the event, the Ooni lauded the role of architects in the design and developments of systems and communities. Describing architects as “the real nation builders,” the Ooni said “globally, the indispensable roles of architects cannot be overemphasised as they design, prepare plans and even superintend all buildings and structures to ensure conformity with standard as well as safety.” The Ooni of Ife charged Nigerian architects and other professionals in the nation’s building industry to push towards implementing the country’s National Building Code. Nigeria’s National Building Code is a set of minimum standards on building pre-design, designs, construction and post-construction stages with a view to ensuring quality, safety and proficiency in the building industry. Referring to the frequent building collapse incidents in Lagos the Ooni said, “…building collapse is a major problem.” To underscore how seriously he viewed the issue, the Monarch declared, “I am ready to join the drive to achieve the implementation of the building code and ethics in Nigeria.”
The Sales Manager, AFP, Mr Uche Uzoewulu received the Award plaque on behalf of the company as the Head, Media Relations, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Prince Moses Duku watched.
Since 2009, the Lagos Architects Forum has become the annual flagship event for Architects who live and work in Lagos, with active participation of Construction Industry Professionals and Service Providers. The event is traditionally hosted at the Jasmine and Zinnia Halls, Expo Centre of the Eko Hotel & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The event is an increasingly popular International Conference, which provides all participants and partners excellent opportunities to meet with the various key players and stakeholders in the Construction Industry. During LAF 13.0, participants had several opportunities to interact and establish bi-lateral ties with affiliated companies, service providers, manufacturers, corporate bodies, prospective end-users, and other relevant stakeholders.
The Lagos Architects Forum 2022 provided a number of unique opportunities for corporate bodies and organizations to promote their products and services that relate to the Construction Industry. These include product launches, display of products and services, exhibitions of architects’ works, workshops, seminars, advertisement, partnership opportunities, post conference site tours, etc. In the words of the Chairman of the Lagos Chapter of the NIA, Arch. David Majekodunmi, ‘….It remains an unbeatable investment of time and resources.’