By Chimezie Godfrey
The Centenary City project in Abuja has recorded a major milestone, with contractors achieving 35 per cent completion on its first major infrastructure component—a 4.3-kilometre access road.
Managing Director of Centenary City, Dr Ike Odenigwe, disclosed this during a stakeholders’ engagement and project inspection, noting that the development signals renewed momentum for the long-delayed initiative.
According to him, the project developers engaged Julius Berger Nigeria Plc for infrastructure delivery and Dar Al-Handasah for engineering design in August 2025.
Odenigwe said the city was conceived as Abuja’s foremost urban renewal project, aimed at attracting global investment and offering a modern lifestyle.
“Every road we pave and every job we create is a step toward a livable, safe and modern community,” he said.
He commended the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, for supporting sustainable development policies that facilitated the project’s revival.
Julius Berger’s representative, Engr Johnny Kauchan, explained that the infrastructure goes beyond road construction to include integrated utilities.
“We are delivering not just roads but comprehensive infrastructure—wastewater systems, stormwater drainage, power, telecoms and water supply,” he said.
He added that construction began in November 2025 and is expected to be completed by April 2027.
Meanwhile, members of host communities welcomed the project but demanded more benefits. Ayuba Ishiaya, a community representative, called for improved social investments.
“Centenary has come to stay, but we appeal for continuous support—scholarships, water supply and employment opportunities for our youths,” he said.
In his remarks, Prof Oke Ikechukwu said the project originated as part of Nigeria’s centenary legacy and has undergone extensive consultations and compensation processes.
“Centenary City is one of the few projects without compensation disputes. Everybody was compensated,” he said.
He attributed earlier delays to political and regulatory challenges but praised Wike for removing obstacles.
The Emir of Jiwa, HRM Dr Idris Musa, also commended the developers and urged communities to sustain cooperation.
The event drew participation from traditional rulers, youth groups and other stakeholders.