News From Nigeria
Julius Berger supports drive for greener, inclusive urban development
. Presentation on Green Material Hub wins Award
Leading engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc all through last week demonstrated its commitment to sustained drive for greener and inclusive urban development even as its subsidiary, PrimeTech Design and Engineering won a Certificate of Achievement for its Green Material Hub presentation at the week-long Africa Green Building Summit in Lagos.
With the theme Building Resilient Futures: Integrating Carbon Neutrality, Circular Economy and Inclusive Urban Development, the Future Cities Summit placed urban resilience at the forefront of policy discourse on the development trajectory of African cities with special reference to Nigeria.
According to the organisers, we acknowledge that sustainable urbanism is not just about reducing carbon emission or implementing green initiatives, it is about creating inclusive environments that can adapt, survive and thrive amid an array of challenges.
With presentations from the event sponsors and partners on Future cities of Africa: A visionary for tomorrow’s landscapes, Harnessing Technology for smart and sustainable urban development in Africa; and Building Codes: Setting new norms in African construction as well as Strategies for achieving carbon neutrality in African cities, the four-day summit called for urgent action in the face of needed measures for transforming our cities into sustainable, resilient and inclusive spaces; adding that, Africa needs to act now to protect and preserve our urban futures.
Speaking on the sideline of the landmark event, the Director, Corporate Development of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Mr. Jochen Stolle recalled the various initiatives by the construction company in enhancing sustainability in all aspects of its operations and declared, Julius Berger actively pursues opportunities to foster shared value, aligning the interests of the company with those of the nation, communities, and dedicated staff. And that is why we support this renewed drive for greener and inclusive urban development for the country and possibly, Africa.
He said the company aligns with the global vision on sustainability and the building of resilient futures in urban landscapes even as he reeled out a few initiatives taken by Julius Berger in the not-too-distant past in this direction.
On Environment-Centric Solutions, he said, Julius Berger has set goals and targets for the next foreseeable years that include the ongoing adoption of environment-centric solutions like incorporating energy-tracking smart buildings, utilising green concrete and recycled aggregates, implementing sustainable site installations and leveraging prefabricated construction techniques.
For Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility, Mr Stolle said Julius Berger adheres to the ten universal principles of the United Nations Global Compact, reinforcing their dedication to responsible and sustainable business practices, adding that the company’s commitment extends to economic viability, environmental responsibility, and social inclusion.
He further said that Julius Berger remained committed to CSR through donations and community development initiatives.
On Health, Safety & Environment, the Director said, Julius Berger prioritizes the welfare of their staff, broader society, and the environment in Nigeria adding that rigorous health, safety, and environmental measures are implemented to ensure responsible growth while preserving resources for the future.
Stolle continued: Our teams operate with a sense of responsibility towards colleagues, clients, business partners, and communities, contributing to long-term sustainability and resilience in the areas where they operate.
He also spoke on the company’s efforts on improved Human Capital Development, philanthropy and social welfare concluding that Julius Berger is at home with global move for sustainability and building resilient futures.
Put together, he said the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Environment, Social, Governance (ESG) metrics recent ranking stood at 98%, ahead of many hitherto well-known companies.
Sustainability and green building are closely intertwined concepts that focus on promoting environmentally responsible and resource-efficient practices in the construction industry. Green building, also known as sustainable building or eco-friendly building, is an approach to design, construction, and operation of buildings that aims to reduce their environmental impact and improve the health and well-being of occupants. Sustainability, on the other hand, is a broader concept that encompasses not only environmental considerations but also social and economic factors to ensure the long-term well-being of current and future generations.
In the Innovation Challenge at the event, a group of Innovators from Julius Berger’s subsidiary, PrimeTech led by Arc. Precious Umoren made a presentation on Green Material Hub designed to empower organisations to solve the sustainable materials challenge and achieve carbon reduction commitments through the production and sourcing of low-carbon materials. The innovation was lauded by most participants as unique and deserving of recognition leading to the Award of Certificate of Achievement to Umoren.
In her post Award reaction, Umoren said, the Hub is designed to function as a virtual space for workshops and training to keep built industry professionals up-to-date with innovative ideas and best material practices, harnessing the potential of indigenous materials while simultaneously encouraging collaboration and networking. Since I was responsible for the research and development of the innovative solution, I dedicated personal leisure hours and the research/training hours allocated by my company to develop the solution with input from my team members. I prepared the presentation slides, proposal, and all other relevant documents. With the company’s support, I made it to the Summit, presented on behalf of Team 3A, and secured first place.
Participants at the event included a member of World Bank Group, International Finance Corporation, IFC, Water conversion specialists, Watergen and Green Building designers, Litedares among several others.
Apart from the Director, Corporate Development that led Team Julius Berger to the landmark event, other members of the Team were, the Senior Executive Manager, Strategic Business Development Unit, Ndifreke Ukochio, Manager, Corporate Communications Department, James Agama, Head, Business Development Unit, Primetech, Ayotunde Sogeke, Head, Business Development, Primetech, Oluwakolade Ilori, Head, Architecture, Primetech, Joseph Abba, Representative of Media Relations Office, Region West, Julius Berger, Mobolaji Ogunyemi and Head, Media Relations, Emmanuel Isibor.
Family announces date for late Wilson Santa Ebireri’s burial
A highly respected Niger Delta family on Saturday talked animatedly about ebullient business entrepreneur, Mr. Wilson Ebireri.
The family praised Wilson Ebireri for his moral convictions and handling of issues.
Death seized Wilson Ebireri so firmly in the early hours of Friday, July 12, 2024 in Sapele, five months before his 71st birthday.
Fondly called ‘’Santa’’ by friends and associates, Wilson Ebireri, according to the family, was very energetic, positive and happy.
‘’With Wilson Santa Ebireri, it was either black or white. No task was too insignificant to him to perform in aid of the family. No journey too perilous for him to undertake’’ the family said.
A statement on Sunday said members of the family met to pray for the repose of the soul of Wilson Ebireri, a caring father and one of Delta’s most energetic and colourful business men.
‘’The family met and picked Friday, September 19 and 20 for the great funeral rites of the father of six sons, a daughter and grandchildren’’.
The statement signed by an elder in the family, Henry Ovie Ebireri, said a service of songs would be held on Thursday, September 19 at Ikomi Road by 5pm.
‘’The body of Wilson Santa Ebireri will depart Obule Hospital on September 20, for his Ikomi Road residence, in Sapele’’.
The statement also said internment would take place on September 20 by 12 noon at Marford Close while reception will be at Okotie-Eboh Grammar School, Sapele.
. We remobilised to site since June – Julius Berger
Nigeria’s leading engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc remobilised to its Abuja-Kaduna – Zaria-Kano Road project on June 19, 2024. The company has since recommenced asphalt installation works on site.
Julius Berger had shut down last year following a force majeure it issued for reasons stated hereunder.
Speaking Thursday at the site where the laying of asphalt on the KM 163 of Section 1 of the Abuja – Kaduna highway, Goringora, the Site Manager, Mike Andrae confirmed that, “we remobilised to the site since mid-June.” Reassuring Nigerians of the determination of the company to deliver the federal infrastructure as early as possible, he declared that, we remain partners in progress with our client, the federal government and the operational communities, and indeed the country as a whole.
In the reconstruction of the ever-busy road, the Site Manager said there will be no lowering of standard adding that the globally acclaimed Julius Berger professional work will still be done here just as in everywhere we work.
On the process of remobilising to site, Andrae said it was completed since June 19, 2024 with the mobilisation of staff and equipment as well as heating up of bitumen. As for the Asphalt Binder Course, he disclosed that it started in CW26 on June 28, 2024.
On Thursday, it was observed that workers on site were engaged in their various roles to further the overall work specifications on the Iron Rollers machines, tyre Roller Machines and the Paver Machine all on KM 163. The laying of Asphalt went on smoothly even as the workers went about it professionally.
At the Km 130 Site Office, the same scenario played out as Workers were seen going about their respective duties. In the Bitumen and Asphalt Testing and Clearing Laboratories, activities went on as assigned staff were observed testing samples of Asphalt and Bitumen.
But in all these, there was palpable apprehension among the workers as they recalled the July 2, 2024 incident at Chainage 134, around Alheri Prayer Camp Village, along Kaduna-Abuja Express Road, Kaduna State, approximately 1.3 KM away from the express road, by the western part, close to OLAM Farms by 5 KM.
According to a security operative in the area, on that day, there was an incident of heavy exchange of gunshots, between some suspected bandits and the Nigerian Army. The incident happened when the army of soldiers were carrying out their normal routine check/excavation of trench around the said area. Having gotten information about a possible bandit’s attack, hence the excavation, and the soldiers were ambushed by the suspected bandits. As a result of the incident, five soldiers lost their lives, one gun truck was burnt, and their weapons carted away.
The security operative was quick to say that the first thing the government needs for a thorough and successful job on the Abuja-Kaduna Road is to ensure the safety of the contractor as only with the completion of the road with no more portholes that require the people to slow down that the safety and security of travellers on the road will increase, and banditry will be drastically reduced.
When a force majeure was first declared by Julius Berger, insecurity considerations alongside other existential reasons including inadequate funding informed the decision.
A community leader in the Goringora axis of the road, Mallam Isa Birnin-Kudu, who was obviously a cheer leader in a group of excited residents of the area loudly spoke through an interpreter saying, we lost hope when there was no work going on this road. But we knew there must have been something wrong. We thank God that the mighty Julius Berger is back.
Youths in Edo State on Saturday explained that the issue of the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Monday Okpebholo, winning the September 21 governorship election was a forgone conclusion.
‘’There is no alternative to Monday Okpebholo in the September 21 governorship election’’
They said Okpebholo’s governorship was an idea whose time had come.
‘’Monday Okpebholo will usher in change and accountability’’
Reading from a prepared text on behalf of Esan youths, community leaders and women on Saturday in Igueben, the Chairman of Esan Youths Movement, Pastor Jonathan Omozokpia, said Okpebholo’s governorship ambition was practically signed, sealed and delivered.
‘’Monday Okpebholo has succeeded in building a network of friends across Nigeria and abroad. He is a darling of the grassroots and will definitely win the September 21 governorship election in Edo State’’
The youths stressed that Okpebholo’s governorship ambition was an answer to the clarion call by well-meaning individuals, including traditional rulers, frontline politicians and Edo professionals in Nigeria and abroad.
‘’’We want a governor who can launch a rebirth and lead Edo away from backwardness to true greatness’’
They dismissed the governorship ambition of Asue Ighodalo, describing him as a complete disadvantage and stranger in Esanland.
‘’Monday Okpebholo shares our values. Many people are tired of incompetent and inept leaders, people who are unable to dream great dreams for Edo State. They are tired of mediocrity and selfishness’’
Particularly, the youths criticised Governor Godwin Obaseki for disappointing the good people of Edo State.
‘’We need to ‘break from the past, save Edo State from ruins. There has been too much noise but far less action in Edo State. There is a lot of retrogression in several areas’’.
They also praised PDP members who recently announced their defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Immediate past Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, has felicitated Senator James Manager on his 64th birthday, describing him as a true patriot committed to the service of humanity.
In a congratulatory message he personally signed, Senator Omo-Agege described the former ranking Senator as a true patriot and reliable individual who has served Delta State and Nigeria with diligence and courage.
He said: “Your life of public service is without blemish, your courage and tenacity of purpose and your firm commitment to the service of humanity are worthy traits of a true patriot.
“I cannot fail to recall your selfless services when you served in the Senate Committees on Works, Niger Delta, Power, Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters, Constitution Review among others, where you served with distinction and for the benefit of Nigeria.
“While I congratulate you on your 64th birthday and thank you for your selfless service to humanity, I pray for your good health, strength and continued service to God and mankind,” Omo-Agege stated.
Signed:
Sunny Areh
Media Adviser to Senator Ovie Omo-Agege
July 7, 2024
President Tinubu unanimously re-elected as ECOWAS chairman, reiterates call for regional force
President Bola Tinubu has called on Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS to work towards the establishment and sustenance of a regional standby force for the security and economic advancement of the community.
Speaking during the opening of the 65th Ordinary Session of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government on Sunday, in Abuja, President Tinubu, who was unanimously re-elected the Chairman of the regional bloc, highlighted the expediency of a standby force in the face of growing security threats.
“The Regional Action Plan against Terrorism has enhanced cooperation on training, intelligence sharing, and humanitarian interventions. In addition to this, the Ministers of Finance and Defence met recently in Abuja to raise funds for activating the ECOWAS Standby Force to boost counter-terrorism efforts.
“Member countries are also displaying their commitment to combating insecurity by individually increasing their defence budgets in order to acquire necessary equipment and ensure preparedness,’’ the President said.
President Tinubu urged member states to commit more to providing the needed resources for securing the region.
“Let me underscore that a peaceful and secure society is essential for achieving our potential. As we move to operationalize the ECOWAS Standby Force (ESF) in combating terrorism, I must emphasize that the success of this plan requires not only strong political will but also substantial financial resources.
“We must, therefore, ensure that we meet the expectations and recommendations set forth by our Ministers of Defence and Finance, in order to counter insecurity and stabilize our region,’’ the President added.
President Tinubu advised ECOWAS leaders to leverage the capabilities of Nigeria’s National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC), which has been widely acknowledged as one of the best on the continent.
July 7, 2024
Press Statement
Edo: Smear Campaigns Against Asue Ighodalo, Effort in Futility-PDP
…Says Candidate Coasting to Victory in September
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) affirms that smear campaigns and frivolous litigations aimed to distract its candidate in the September 21, 2024 Edo State Governorship election, Dr. Asue Ighodalo are all efforts in futility as he is the undisputed choice of the majority of the people of Edo State.
The PDP alerts that it is aware of a well-oiled plot by certain egocentric and overtly ambitious individuals to orchestrate a series of coordinated smear campaigns against Dr. Asue Ighodalo being frustrated by his emergence as candidate, his overwhelming popularity across the State and the fact that he is already coasting to victory in the election.
The Party has been made aware of how these angry and bitter individuals have been going around the courts and reportedly attempting to induce certain judicial officers to procure damaging rulings against our candidate.
It has also come to the knowledge of our Party that these unscrupulous elements have been attempting to compromise the media to publish fabrications against our candidate and campaign.
Our Party have it on good authority that the intent of these individuals who have been holding clandestine meetings in locations in Abuja and Benin City is to cause crisis and derail the democratic process leading to the Edo State governorship election.
Information available shows that these politicians are behind the erroneous report that our Party’s Governorship Primary in Edo State was nullified by the Court when the Court indeed did not issue any Order to that effect.
These individuals have been going about brazenly boasting that they have the connection and capacity to compromise the courts.
Such barefaced boast is a direct assault on the sensibility and pride of the majority of the people of Edo State as well as the institutions of democracy where the Will of the majority of the people must prevail.
Our Party alerts the Institution of the Judiciary, the Media and Security Agencies to be wary of the antics and activities of these elements and take steps to resist their shenanigans which is a clear and present danger to the sustenance of democracy in our country.
In any case, the PDP is not deterred by the mischiefs of these failed individuals as their schemes against Dr. Asue Ighodalo and the people of Edo State have come to naught having already been exposed.
Our Candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo continues to enjoy the solidarity and support of the overwhelming majority of the people of Edo State; he remains focused on his issue-based campaign and will not be distracted from his vision and agenda of moving Edo State to another level of prosperity and development on the platform the PDP.
The PDP calls on the people of Edo State to remain at alert and resolute in their determination to ensure continued development by voting enmasse for the PDP and Dr. Asue Ighodalo in the September 21, 2024 Governorship election in the State.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
ECOWAS 65TH SESSION: PRESIDENT TINUBU CALLS FOR COMMITMENT AND FUNDING TOWARDS REGIONAL STANDBY FORCE, SAYS THE COMMUNITY NEEDS SECURITY AND STABILITY TO ACHIEVE POTENTIAL
President Bola Tinubu has called on Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS to work towards the establishment and sustenance of a regional standby force for the security and economic advancement of the community.
Speaking during the opening of the 65th Ordinary Session of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government on Sunday, in Abuja, President Tinubu, who is the Chairman of the regional bloc, highlighted the expediency of a standby force in the face of growing security threats.
“The Regional Action Plan against Terrorism has enhanced cooperation on training, intelligence sharing, and humanitarian interventions. In addition to this, the Ministers of Finance and Defence met recently in Abuja to raise funds for activating the ECOWAS Standby Force to boost counter-terrorism efforts.
“Member countries are also displaying their commitment to combating insecurity by individually increasing their defence budgets in order to acquire necessary equipment and ensure preparedness,’’ the President said.
President Tinubu urged member states to commit more to providing the needed resources for securing the region.
“Let me underscore that a peaceful and secure society is essential for achieving our potential. As we move to operationalize the ECOWAS Standby Force (ESF) in combating terrorism, I must emphasize that the success of this plan requires not only strong political will but also substantial financial resources.
“We must, therefore, ensure that we meet the expectations and recommendations set forth by our Ministers of Defence and Finance, in order to counter insecurity and stabilize our region,’’ the President added.
President Tinubu advised ECOWAS leaders to leverage the capabilities of Nigeria’s National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC), which has been widely acknowledged as one of the best on the continent.
The President said his government has decided to make the NCTC a regional centre to enable all ECOWAS member states to benefit from capacity building and other related opportunities it offers.
President Tinubu also advised the management of ECOWAS to re-align and reposition its priorities by reducing overheads and setting up in-country steering committees.
“Difficult economic conditions and inconsistent payment of financial commitments to ECOWAS have contributed to the current plight. To ensure ECOWAS has adequate resources for its programmes and activities, I urge all member states to ensure full compliance with the Protocol on the Community Levy.
“Nigeria, under my leadership, is committed to leading by example in remitting its collected levies to the organization. Nevertheless, the ECOWAS management must also reduce its overhead expenditures and focus on programmes and activities that directly impact the lives of our citizens.
“I am aware of the progress report on the implementation of the ECOWAS Institutional Reforms. I therefore call on the President of the ECOWAS Commission to resume and expedite the conclusion of the second phase of the Institutional Reforms, aimed at reducing the organization’s operational costs,’’ the President said.
President Tinubu welcomed a new member of the Authority, Senegalese President, Bassirou Diomaye Faye.
“Allow me to further extend warm congratulations to the Government and people of the Republic of Senegal for their steadfastness in the consolidation of democratic governance.
“Their recently concluded presidential election has been widely adjudged as free, fair, transparent, and credible. This achievement is a testament to our region’s commitment to the principles of democracy, good governance, and rule of law,’’ the President stated.
President Tinubu said the 65th session will review the concerns in the region, adding: “We are aware of the enormous challenges, including terrorist activities and violent extremism threatening to spread from the Sahel region towards the coastal states. The political landscape still remains fragile in some member states, especially those that witnessed unconstitutional changes of government.”
While calling for unity within the community, the President emphasized that to elevate the people from poverty to prosperity, it is imperative for ECOWAS to develop innovative approaches to unleash the region’s vast economic potential.
“We must continue to identify and develop partnerships that promote investment in key sectors and promote regional trade. Furthermore, we must invest in our infrastructure and cultivate a conducive business environment to empower our communities to stimulate growth and build resilience against external shocks.
“Together, we can pave the way for a prosperous future for all of West Africa,’’ the President stated.
President Tinubu also called for support in re-electing Ambassador Bankole Adeoye as AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security in February 2025.
In his remarks, the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Omar Alieu Touray thanked President Tinubu for his purposeful leadership, affirming that ECOWAS should not be defined by conflicts, elections, and coup d’états, but by development.
Touray said the exiting of ECOWAS by Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger will affect citizens of the countries, and other ECOWAS countries, following the need for visas, and the review of all trade and development agreements, including ongoing ECOWAS projects in those countries.
Chief Ajuri Ngelale
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
July 7, 2024
STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
PRESIDENT TINUBU RE-ELECTED AS CHAIRMAN OF THE AUTHORITY OF ECOWAS HEADS OF STATE AND GOVERNMENT
President Bola Tinubu has been re-elected as the Chairman of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government.
The President’s mandate was extended at the 65th Ordinary Session of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government on Sunday in Abuja, following the decision of the leaders to ensure continuity and consistency in meeting targets on security, reconciliation, and development.
President Tinubu was first elected to the position in Guinea-Bissau on July 9, 2023.
In his acceptance speech, the President said he would focus on consolidating the values of democracy and upholding the interest of the regional body, which will clock 50 years in 2025.
The Chairman of ECOWAS appointed the President of Senegal, His Excellency, Mr. Bassirou Diomaye Faye, and the President of Togo, His Excellency, Mr. Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, as Special Envoys to Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger Republic.
“I have appointed the President of Senegal, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, to please become our Special Envoy to Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger Republic, along with the President of Togo, Faure Gnassingbé, to do around the clock work with our brothers in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger Republic, and to coordinate with me and the ECOWAS Commission, where necessary.
“I have accepted to continue the service to the great members and the great minds that are committed to democratic values and our journey in the region.
“I will continue to serve our interest and build on democratic values and the structure that we inherited. Thank you very much,’’ the President said.
President Tinubu had earlier called on Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS to work towards the establishment and sustenance of a regional standby force for the security and economic advancement of the community.
The President emphasized the expediency of a standby force in the face of growing security threats in the region.
Chief Ajuri Ngelale
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
July 7, 2024
….. Says BEDC Officials Manipulated Systems, Decry Monthly Charges In Excess of #7m
Hoteliers and owners of business concerns in the ancient city of Sapele, headquarters of Sapele local Government are crying out to the government and well meaning individuals to come to their rescue following what they describe as spiraling and outrageous electricity charges by the Benin Electricity Distribution Company, BEDC that has refused all forms of reasoning.
The cries of these hoteliers are hinged on recent hike in electricity for Band A consumers of electricity has resulted in BEDC officials allegedly tampering with power transformers located close to their different entities and reconfiguring the system.
A member of the Association of Hotels Owners, resident in the ancient city who spoke with journalists over the weekend, while pleading that his name should not be mentioned for fear of victimization, said that his monthly consumption bills rose from #300, 000:00 to over #1.2m. He wondered how his fellow members with larger facilities will be coping as many of them are now paying over #8m-#11m on a monthly basis. He called for understanding, as this will force many to close down their businesses over their inability to meet up with daily expenses and cost of running generating plants to bridge the gap in the epileptic power supply to the town.
Sapele, back in the late 60’s, 70’s and 80’s was a town that was filled with a beehive of commercial activities is now a shadow of its old self with businesses going under daily with the harsh economic downturn due to the absence of adequate power supply to the town. The presence of the Ogorode Power Plant, notwithstanding, has been a huge minus, as they cannot boast of steady six hours daily power supply. To make matters worse, BEDC has become a thorn in the flesh of the inhabitants.
The unfavourable business environment has compelled many to relocate their businesses elsewhere in order to survive. Sadly, hotel owners cannot adopt a similar approach considering the fact that they cannot remove structures built with hard-earned resources but are instead, appealing to government to come to their aid by imploring upon BEDC to address the issue.
Meanwhile, available information reveal that BEDC officials have insisted that there is no going back in the tariff hike and not even government or anybody can reverse their decision.
The high handedness of the management of the Benin Electricity Distribution Company in Sapele, under the watch of Messers Friday Okosun, Austin Isibor and Precious Ogodo has become a huge source of worry to inhabitants.
Further reports also indict the trio of being responsible for the recalibrations of the maximum demand metres in the city as, sometime in the year 2022, a pretentious energy tracing team from BEDC visited some Band A consumers sub-station located within the premises of some industries such as Hotels and Eateries. Their mission was to compromise the Maximum Demand Meter (MD) affixed to the transformer to make them read faster and increase the units of energy consumed.
“Their action resulted in very high billing of all Band A consumers as they all started receiving over 300% of their former bills. For example, hotels that use to consume 10,000 units jumped to 34,000, 39,000, 40,000 units and above without any additional new building, no new equipment but with the same volume of patronage. The bills also increased from 600k, 1.4m, 1.9m, 2.5m, 2.9m 3.2m monthly. While these hospitality industries were groaning under these huge bills, Mr. Okosun, the regional manager, decided to implement the recently hike in tariff by the Minister of Power, from 67.45 to 225 naira per unit of energy consumed.” Another Hotel owner lamented.
“The April bills for hotels ranges from #5.9million to #10million for some while others are contending with bills for electricity consumed, from between #11.5m, #14.7m and #17.6m. The Hotels Owners Association drew the attention of the BEDC management to the ongoing debate at the National Assembly and the NLC negotiations with the Federal Government.
“We pleaded that we will pay the bills but with the old tariff rate of 67.45 pending the outcome of the actions the the legislators and Labour. They agreed. To our greatest dismay, after making payments, Mr. Okosun still went ahead to give a directive to disconnect supply without notice, insisting that we must make payment in full. The question is, how does he expect that a Hotel located in Sapele would be to pay 11.5m for electricity every month?
Who will save Hotel owners in Sapele?
Recall that, in trying to broker a peaceful resolution of the situation between the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC and the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, NERC, the Federal House of Representatives had called on the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission to suspend forthwith the implementation of the new electricity tariff nationwide. Is the BEDC saying that the House of Representatives has no powers to intervene?
The inaugural edition of the Julius Berger Vocational Support Programme kicked off Monday with the company’s Director, Administration, Alh. Dr Abdulaziz Kaita telling the fresh trainees that Nigeria’s leading engineering construction company, Julius Berger has always been an excited partner in progress with the governments at all levels in the country.
Julius Berger has always been partner in progress with the government and part of our contribution to the society to have vocational training as a way forward for the country, he said.
He admonished the Programme participants to work hard and asked questions to enhance their respective employable lives upon graduation from the programme in a few months’ time.
Speaking on the process that threw up the participants for the programme, the Director said that the trainees must count themselves lucky to have mage it as they were the lucky 36 candidates from the over 9,000 applicants that applied for the training.
He was full of praise for the female participants whom he described as extremely lucky and deservedly so.
He said, I’m very happy that we have women here. This is because if you educate a man, you educate an individual but if you educate a woman, you educate a whole nation. So can you clap for the women here too. You know they are our mothers. And if you educate a woman she will transfer the knowhow to others and before you know it, we get a woman to educate a whole nation.
In his own speech, the Head, Human Resources Department, Mr Olorumfemi Ojomo who welcomed the trainees told them Julius Berger Nigeria Plc takes the Vocational Support Programme serious; and as a result it took a Director in the company to be present to address them.
Urging them to always feel free to ask relevant Faculty members questions on the Programme, he disclosed that there are quite a lot for the trainees to learn including benefits like receiving quality training, certification, tools support and mentorship; even as he wished them all good success.
The Julius Berger Vocational Support Programme, a CSR initiative is designed to empower Nigerian youths with technical skills and certificates for better employability and socioeconomic progress.
It is a 10-month technical training programme in automotive repair services, considering the fast-evolving nature of the automotive industry.
The curricula have been so designed for training in the following technical expertise to enable beneficiaries learn a skill that will remain commercially viable for the foreseeable future: Auto Mechanics and Battery Services, Vulcanizing, Alignment and Wheel Balancing as well as Auto Diagnostics.
The programme targets adult Nigerians resident in Abuja with a School Leaving Certificate. It is also for women seeking opportunities in the areas of technical expertise and for persons within disadvantaged groups, PWDs.
The company’s Head, Human Reources Department, Mr. Olorunfemi Ojomo, Chief Risk Officer, Mrs Shakira Mustapha and the Director, Administration, Dr. Abdulaziz Kaita. Others were Talent Development and Academy Manager, Mrs Goodness Onoja and Mrs Happiness Moses of the Media Relations Office.
The Academy’s Faculty members at the event included: Trade Area/Auto Electrical system; Emmanuel Iloduba, Trade Area/Safety; Adegbe Adegbe, Trade Area/ Program Coordinator, Samuel Ofobotekeru, Trade Area/Vulcanization and Wheel balancing, Mohammed Bin Ahmed, Trade Area/Auto Electrical System; Muhammed Aminu, and Trade Area/Auto Diagnostics, Danlami
Abuja-Kano Road Project: Eco-conscious construction
In his advert on May 29, 2024, to mark his achievements on the first year anniversary of the present federal government of Nigeria in office, Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi stated that against all odds, the rehabilitation of the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Road, Section II, that is, the Kaduna-Zaria axis is now 90% complete.
The Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Road (AKR) is a significant highway project contracted to leading engineering construction company to revamp from the Federal Capital city, Abuja through Kaduna and Zaria to Kano.
The project involves the reconstruction and infrastructure development of a 375 km section of the A2 highway which runs from the capital city, Abuja, to the city of Kano in northern Nigeria. The goal being to establish better connections between the northern regions of Nigeria and the southern parts to enhance transportation, trade, and economic development in the region.
In addition to roadway reconstruction, the project includes the provision of footbridges, road lighting, toll roads, service stations, and rest facilities along the highway.
The project is part of the Trans-African Highways network, which aims to create well-developed road-based trade corridors across Africa.
A notable feature of the project is the use of cold recycling with foamed bitumen as the construction method. Cold recycling is an environmentally friendly approach that optimally utilizes existing construction materials and conserves valuable resources.
In the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Road Project, Julius Berger is employing the Bitumen Stabilised Material, BSM mixture of reclaimed asphalt pavement material, foamed binder, active filler and fresh aggregates to produce a unique road infrastructure for the government of Nigeria. The reason is simple.
As road construction surges across Nigeria, the depletion of crucial resources like gravels and granites poses a significant challenge. The tremendous 380km length of the Abuja-Kano Road project requires blasting and excavation of rocks and granites. It is in response to this development that Julius Berger introduced this Cold In-Place recycling technique, revolutionizing the approach to infrastructure development.
Road construction puts pressure on natural resources like gravels and granites depleting its availability for future use.
To mitigate the environmental impact of the project, Julius Berger, for the first time in Nigeria, introduced the Cold In-Place recycling methodology. This approach enhances both road durability and eco-consciousness and has attracted attention all over Nigeria.
The Ahmadu Bello University Zaria now partners Julius Berger Nigeria Plc in an internship programme that allows its students understudy the methodology for practical experience to replicate for sustainable road construction. This is a plus for the loaded CSR CV of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc.
This innovative method has numerous benefits. The new road is planned to have an increased bearing capacity, compared to the previous pavement constructed with granular base course, leading to an extended lifespan. It is environmentally friendly and helps to conserve natural resources, considering the reduced need for new material to be mined / damaged asphalt to be dumped. Furthermore, construction traffic is greatly reduced compared to conventional methods; meaning fewer heavy load bearing trucks on the road, reducing road congestion and diminishing the burden on the livelihood of the surrounding communities.
It also underscores the company’s commitment to environmental stewardship and collaborative progress, as evidenced by partnerships with educational institutions like Ahmadu Bello University Zaria.
Julius Berger Nigeria PLC is always looking for solutions to lead us into the sustainable future.
With the introduction of Bitumen-Stabilized Material (BSM) to Nigeria, JBN is the first company, to make use of existing (recycled) materials by means of Cold Recycling Technology.
BSM simply means, Cold recycling with Foamed Bitumen aka Bitumen-Stabilized Material – is commonly RAP material and/or Granular Base Course (GBC) material mixed with a limited amount of Cement as an Active Filler, Water and Foamed Bitumen, which is produced by injecting water to hot Bitumen.
After six years of BSM experience for the Abuja-Kano Road, the significant advantages of laying BSM are practically visible. It increases the structural strength of the road due to an increase in cohesion to withstand traffic loads immediately after construction. Furthermore, BSM reduces the moisture sensitivity drastically.
According to some published literature, Julius Berger brings together people, materials, and machinery at the right time and at the right place in order to implement new, innovative products into the construction market.
Which was why that by mid-July 2023, Trial Field Tests were conducted with PolyGRA (Supplier: Gradient), which is a polymeric modifier. This granulate is added directly to the asphalt mixer resulting in Polymer modified Asphalt (PmA) by making use of Standard Bitumen 60/70.
Several representatives of Ministry of Works and the Pavement Evaluation Unit (PEU) reportedly joined in the exercise to monitor the performance of PmA and to follow up with further long-term tests. So far, Julius Berger continues to get applause for the innovation, the publication stated.
Inspite of intervening factors, there have been ongoing efforts to complete and upgrade the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano road. As of now, 100 kilometres (though not in a continuous stretch) have been completed under sections one to three (Abuja-Kano), 40 kilometres have been completed under section two (Kaduna-Zaria) and 70 kilometres have been completed under section three (Zaria-Kano).
The recent hour bestowed on Julius Berger Nigeria Plc by the prestigious Environment Reporters Association of Nigeria, ERAN no doubt underscores the foregoing.
According to the specialised Group of Journalists, we note that, after we have carried out discreet survey on your operational activities majorly on your adherence to Environmental Impact Assessment, EIA over the years, we decided to honour Julius Berger Plc as a corporate body with 2023 Environmental Best Practices
Award.
The Group continued: besides your adherence to EIA, we discovered that your construction operations have been strictly within the ambit of environmental laws for the sustainability of the Nigerian Environment in consonance with global standards.
ERAN further noted that Julius Berger’s operational modalities comply with international best practices and respect the environmental rights of communities in your areas of operations with professional sound analytical and research skills, combined with scientific and technical experience in management and administration resulting in demonstrable achievements in the preservation, restoration and development of the Nigerian environment, as a body.
In fact, what Julius Berger is doing on the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Road project is employing cutting edge innovative approach that aims to reduce the strain on the environment during building and design processes that would result in creating healthier living spaces while minimizing environmental impact. Simply put, that is, being eco-conscious in road construction.
AGAIN, JULIUS BERGER GETS DOUBLE HONOURS: BAGS APPRECIATION AWARD FROM ACADEMY OF ENGINEERING AND NIPR’S EXCELLENCE IN PROFESSIONAL COMPLIANCE AWARD
Barely one month after Julius Berger Nigeria Plc. won double Awards at the Transport Day and Champion Newspapers Awards ceremonies in Lagos, the country’s leading engineering construction company, has bagged another set of double Awards.
While the Nigerian Academy of Engineering gave the company an Appreciation Award for all its professional and related support to the Academy in Lagos at its 2024 Academy Technology Dinner, Innovations Exhibition and Awards Night, the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations, NIPR, gave Julius Berger a corporate Award in Professional Competence in Abuja.
In giving Julius Berger the Appreciation Award, the President of the Academy of Engineering, Prof Peter Onwualu said, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc has been a useful partner in our journey thus far. The company has always been supportive and how else do we appreciate them if not by this novel Appreciation Award, even as he described the company as a corporate friend that is worth more than silver and gold.
Receiving the Award on behalf of Julius Berger, the Head, Corporate Communications of the company, Mr. James Agama thanked the organisers for the honour on Julius Berger even as he wished them well in all their future endeavours.
The event night featured exhibitions of technological innovations like the Intrud Safety Device, locally made 380watts glass solar panel and Smart Irrigation technology among others.
Inside the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, Thursday, at the Institute’s 60th anniversary celebrations, President of the NIPR, Ike Neliaku, fnipr who personally handed over the Award certificate and plaque to Julius Berger’s representative and Human Resources Coordinator, Mohammed Nasiru said that the Julius Berger’s commitment and dedication to excellence in service delivery, in and outside government, has set a high standard for others to follow and significantly enhanced the reputation and practice of public relations as a leadership function.
He continued, we reflect on your achievements and we celebrate with you and acknowledge the impact you have made in the field of public relations, the nation and continent in general.
Speaking after he received the Award on behalf of the company, Mr Haruna said, it was a great honour to Julius Berger to be awarded this Excellence in Professional Compliance Award. As good corporate citizens, Julius Berger has always being and will continue to be compliant for the good of our country, the industry and the general society.
The Award event which had former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, former First Lady of the country, Dame Patience Jonathan, Governors Abdullahi Sule, Nasarawa State; Umar Namadi, Jigawa State; Abba Kabir Yusuf, Kano State, former Information ministers, Prof. Jerry Gana and Labaran Maku as well as the incumbent, Mohammed Idris Malagi, fnipr and Chairman/CEO of Air Peace Limited, Chief Allen Onyema, CON as well as many others in attendance, overflowed into the lobby area of the Congress Hall of the Transcorp Hilton venue of the event.
Established in 1963 and chartered by Decree 16 of June 1 1990 (now an Act of the National Assembly, cited as Cap. N114 Laws of the Federation, LFN 2024), the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) is the sole regulator of public relations in Nigeria. Over the past 60 years, we have demonstrated faith and commitment to the nation and provided strategic support towards national development.
This milestone not only marks our enduring commitment to the field of public relations and deploying the profession as a critical element in nation-building but also provides an opportunity to honour those who have significantly contributed to its advancement, the NIPR President further said.
Team Julius Berger Nigeria Plc at the Award event included, the Head, Media Relation Office, Emmanuel Isibor, Miss Bassey Ewan-Effiong, Mrs Happiness Moses and Miss Olivia Uzoma.
JULIUS BERGER’S 2024 INVESTOR FORUM: WE’RE A MAJOR PLAYER IN NIGERIA’S CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY, SAYS RICHTER
The Managing Director of leading engineerig construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Engr. Dr. Lars Richter has declared that the company is a major player in the country’s construction sector, adding that, “it is hard not to reckon with Julius Berger Nigeria Plc in the scheme of things despite the challenges posed by the Nigerian economy in 2023.”
The Managing Director who spoke at the recent edition of the company’s Investors Forum few days after its successful 54th Annual General Meeting, in answer to a question from an investor said, “we are still a major player in Nigeria’s construction industry. We have the brand and experience; we are not unaware of the rising competition; we remain a Tier 1 construction company. We have the funding power; we have the capacity in terms of manpower and experience, which many in the competition cannot really boast of.”
Richter, who was optimistic that the company will get new projects, moving forward said, “opportunities abound not only at the federal government level, in states like Abia, Delta, Rivers and Akwa Ibom as well as the Republic of Benin, where the company currently has some projects ongoing, we are optimistic we will get new projects there and even from identified potential clients.”
In answer to another question, the Managing Director, said, “Julius Berger completed Phase 1 of the Lagos-Sagamu Expressway last year.” Adding that, the project is ongoing, he said, “Phases 2 and 3 are under review with the government. The asphalt work there is okay. Right now, some minor repair works are being undertaken. We are ready to continue our work on the project, but it will depend on the government.”
On the company’s highly rated CSR scorecard, Richter said, “Julius Berger deliberately trains and employs unemployed youths at operational sites, where they have opportunities to become skilled and more useful to the society.” He continued, “we employ them in the sites. We dont employ only skilled workers there. We employ unemployed youths, train and equip them to work at our sites. We provide them with education too in our Academy. Indeed, we do a lot in the training of unemployed youths.”
Richter also said the company’s CSR efforts have continued to have positive impacts on targeted communities even as he disclosed that, “Julius Berger focusses on education, community development and philanthropy” adding that, “to ensure the sustainable efforts reach targeted beneficiaries, the company’s Community Liaison Officers, CLOs, in the operational communities send feedback to the relevant departments”, retorting that, “we have CLOs. They are effective liaison with the communities. We get feedback from them. So, we easily address our CSR complaints.”
Answering a question on diversification, Richter said, “the company has some key considerations in determining its options principal among which are the Food sector and the Healthcare sector apart from the regional diversification as being currently experienced in Cotonou, Republic of Benin.” Assuring potential investors on Julius Berger’s diversification efforts, Richter said, “we are mainly a construction company. On diversification efforts in Julius Berger, Jochen Stolle is there to look into our diversification plan. He is covering all the projects and sectors for diversification. It is a new field, and we are looking into B2B business on diversification… Food security is becoming a major problem; and we are already looking into how we can key in and be relevant.”
On the reported vandalization of sections of the newly constructed Second Niger Bridge, the Managing Director disclosed that, “the company is assisting the Federal Government to fix the vandalised project.” He said, “we have records of the vandalization. We are assisting the Federal Government on this. Our team has been there and only minor damage was done to the national asset. But nothing was done to the infrastructure.”
Richter said “Julius Berger is maintaining a positive outlook in every aspect of its operations. Our strategic framework prioritises sustainability, supports growth, leverages innovation and focuses on long term growth. We will continue to deliver high quality services to our client and despite the challenges, Julius Berger is on the road to innovation, sustainability, growth among other positive developments.”
The Financial Director, Christian Hausemann, who also spoke at the event was confident that the fortunes of the company are looking up.
The virtual Investors Forum, which had participants across the globe in attendance saw presentations by the Managing Director and the Financial Director and featured a Questions and Answers session.
The annual Julius Berger Investors Forum serves as a platform to illuminate the intricate tapestry of our business, operations, and financial achievements. The company uses the Forum to unveil the blueprint of ist acclaimed success while offering discerning investors and potential ones a comprehensive view of the company‘s journey, achievements, and aspirations.
The company holds that through a meticulous examination of its business model, operational prowess, and financial highlights, investors and potential ones will gain invaluable insights into the compelling investment opportunities that Julius Berger presents within the construction industry.