FCT Minister Wike Lauds Julius Berger, Flags Off Arterial Road Construction In Abuja

Abuja, Nigeria – The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, has praised Julius Berger Nigeria Plc for its consistent quality and timely delivery of projects, declaring the company the best in the country’s engineering construction sector.

Wike made these remarks during the official flag-off ceremony of the development of Arterial Road N5 (Obafemi Awolowo Way) from Life Camp Junction to Ring Road 111 in the Federal Capital City on Friday.

The 4.4km road project, which includes box culverts, a river bridge, and the N3/N30 junction, is expected to be completed within 18 months.

Wike highlighted his long-standing relationship with Julius Berger, dating back to his tenure as Governor of Rivers State.

He described the company’s commitment to quality as a driving force behind his decision to amend procurement laws in Rivers State to accommodate their services.

“One company that made me move from amendment to procurement law in Rivers State was Julius Berger,” Wike stated.

“I realised that the law permitted 15 to 30 per cent variation fees, which could lead to financial constraints. So, we amended the law to allow the Executive Council to pay up to 70% upfront for competent companies, knowing that Julius Berger is reliable and will never leave the country.”

He credited this policy with the successful completion of 12 flyovers in Rivers State within four years.

Wike used this experience to highlight the need to review the federal procurement law, which he described as a major obstacle to efficient project execution.

The minister also acknowledged the need for the road project, citing numerous complaints from residents about traffic congestion in the area.

He expressed his gratitude to the FCT Administration for awarding the contract to Julius Berger, a company he considers a “partner for progress.”

Julius Berger’s Managing Director, Engr Dr Peer Lubasch, thanked the FCT Administration for its trust and expressed the company’s commitment to delivering a high-quality project within the stipulated timeframe.

He underscored the long-standing partnership between Julius Berger and the FCT Administration, describing it as a “true investment in infrastructure for progress.”

The event was graced by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, represented by Senator Ibrahim Bomai, who flagged off the road construction.

Other dignitaries present included the Minister of State for the FCT, Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure, Senator George Skibo, and Abdul Rahman Ajiya, House of Representatives member representing Gwagwalada, Kuje, Kwali, and Abaji FCT.

The project is expected to significantly improve transportation and traffic flow in the area, providing much-needed relief to residents and commuters.

The successful completion of this project will further solidify Julius Berger’s reputation as a reliable and competent construction company in Nigeria.