Julius Berger Awarded ₦750 Billion Abuja Centenary City Project After 11 Years of Inactivity

Abuja’s Centenary City Project Relaunches with N750 Billion Contract to Julius Berger After 11-Year Delay

After more than a decade of delays and policy setbacks, the ambitious Centenary City project in Abuja is finally back on track. The management of Centenary City Plc has signed a massive ₦750 billion infrastructure contract with construction giant Julius Berger Nigeria Plc to kick off the long-awaited first phase of the project, originally conceptualized in 2014 as Abuja’s flagship urban renewal initiative.

What Is Centenary City?

Conceived during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan, the Centenary City was designed as a symbol of national pride, commemorating Nigeria’s 100 years of unification. The project, initially estimated at ₦18.6 billion, was expected to transform the capital into a futuristic smart city — featuring luxury homes, global business hubs, world-class recreational facilities, and eco-friendly infrastructure.

However, following years of policy inconsistencies, political transitions, and administrative bottlenecks, the project stalled — until now.

Official Relaunch: Julius Berger Awarded Infrastructure Deal

In a press briefing held in Abuja, Dr. Michael Odenigwe Jr., Managing Director of Centenary City Plc, announced the signing of the infrastructure development contract with Julius Berger. The deal covers the primary infrastructure for Phase 1 of the development, marking a major step forward in realizing the vision of a smart, livable, and globally competitive urban center in Nigeria’s capital.

“This project was delayed for over 11 years due to government transitions and shifting policies,” Odenigwe noted. “But this administration understands the economic significance of Centenary City and is committed to ensuring its success.”

Infrastructure Scope & Execution Plan

Phase 1 Highlights:

Total Investment: ₦750 billion
Execution Timeline: 2 years (Phase 1), 4 years (Full infrastructure delivery)
Construction Partner: Julius Berger Nigeria Plc
Engineering Design Partner: Dar Al-Handasah Consultants (DAR)

Phase 1 will be delivered in multiple lots, beginning with:

A 4.3 km access road
Secondary infrastructure development for:
The Grove Residences
The Safari Park Residences
The Ridge Villas

DAR, the original designers of the city’s master plan, will also lead the detailed engineering design, ensuring consistency with the project’s original vision.

A New Urban Destination for Africa

Dr. Odenigwe emphasized that Centenary City isn’t just another housing project — it’s positioned as Africa’s most advanced smart city, blending modern infrastructure with cultural, business, and entertainment hubs.

Key features of the development include:

Tallest building in sub-Saharan Africa
A 150-hectare entertainment park for the creative and film industries (Nollywood)
13 international hotel brands
A luxury shopping complex named Mall of Africa
A championship golf course
An International Convention Centre and Commerce Hub

“We’re not just building houses; we’re creating a destination city that reflects the best of Nigerian innovation and ambition,” he said.

Community Inclusion & Resettlement

As part of the resettlement scheme, over 280 houses have already been built in Gude District for the original residents. The target is 857 homes, showing the project’s commitment to social inclusion and community development.

Additionally, the company maintains strong ties with local communities and traditional rulers, offering support and social amenities.

Economic Impact: Jobs, FDI & Urban Renewal

The Centenary City Project is projected to generate:

50,000 jobs during the construction phase
Up to 250,000 employment opportunities upon completion
Significant foreign direct investment (FDI) due to its global appeal

“Nigeria needs smart infrastructure and job creation more than ever,” said Odenigwe. “This city will become a magnet for global investors and a beacon of development for Abuja.”

He praised FCT Minister Nyesom Wike for his proactive role and renewed commitment to seeing the project through, aligning it with the broader goals of sustainable development and urban transformation in Nigeria’s capital.

Smart City with Nature in Mind

Unlike many urban developments, Centenary City is designed to integrate seamlessly with its natural surroundings. The plan includes both bustling urban districts and serene suburban areas, offering a well-balanced, livable environment for residents and visitors.

“This project is not only a smart city; it’s also a green city, working in harmony with nature,” said Odenigwe.