In a landmark development poised to elevate Nigeria’s urban landscape, the ambitious Centenary City Project (CCP) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has roared back to life after an 11-year hiatus. The project, a visionary public-private partnership (PPP) initially launched in 2014 to commemorate Nigeria’s centenary, has secured a monumental N750 billion contract with Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, the country’s leading construction firm, to deliver critical infrastructure for the first phase of this futuristic smart city.
Centenary City, a sprawling 1,260-hectare master-planned development located just southwest of Abuja and five kilometers from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, is designed to rival global urban hubs like Dubai, Monaco, and Singapore. Overseen by Centenary City FZE, the project aims to create a state-of-the-art, private sector-driven trade and investment hub that promises to redefine luxury, innovation, and urban living in Nigeria. Envisioned as a “city of the future,” Centenary City will integrate smart technology, sustainable infrastructure, and world-class amenities, eliminating the need for Nigerians to travel abroad for premium leisure and relaxation experiences.
The project’s revival marks a significant step toward positioning Nigeria among the world’s industrialized nations, with Centenary City serving as a beacon of progress and economic transformation. “This is more than just a city; it’s a bold statement of Nigeria’s ambition to compete on the global stage,” a project spokesperson said.
Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, renowned for its expertise in delivering large-scale infrastructure projects, has been awarded the contract to construct primary and secondary infrastructure for the project’s first phase. The scope includes a 4.3km plot access road and supporting infrastructure for key residential areas, including Grove Residences, Safari Park Residences, and Ridge Villas. The contract will be executed in lots to ensure efficiency and timely delivery.
Following the signing of the deal, Julius Berger has mobilized to the site with immediate effect, signaling the project’s accelerated timeline. “We are committed to delivering world-class infrastructure that aligns with the vision of Centenary City as a global destination,” a representative from Julius Berger stated.
Launched in 2014 under the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan with an initial capital investment of N18.6 billion, Centenary City faced significant challenges that stalled its progress. These included revoked land rights, certificate withdrawals, and calls for investigations, which collectively delayed the project for over a decade. Despite these setbacks, the renewed commitment from stakeholders and the Federal Government has breathed new life into the initiative, with the N750 billion contract marking a turning point.
The project’s resumption reflects a collaborative effort between the public and private sectors to overcome past hurdles and deliver a transformative urban development. Centenary City is expected to attract significant local and international investment, create thousands of jobs, and boost Nigeria’s tourism and real estate sectors.
Spanning 1,260 hectares of virgin land, Centenary City is designed to be a self-contained urban ecosystem. The development will feature residential estates, commercial districts, cutting-edge technology hubs, recreational facilities, and sustainable infrastructure. Its proximity to Abuja and the international airport positions it as an ideal destination for business, tourism, and luxury living.
Once completed, Centenary City is expected to rival global cities like Dubai, offering Nigerians and international visitors a world-class experience without leaving the country. “There will be no need to travel to Dubai for pleasure and relaxation,” a project official remarked. “Centenary City will bring that experience home.”
The revival of Centenary City is a significant milestone in Nigeria’s quest for sustainable urban development. The project is expected to drive economic growth by attracting foreign direct investment, fostering innovation, and creating opportunities for local businesses. Additionally, the construction phase alone will generate significant employment opportunities, while the completed city will serve as a hub for commerce, tourism, and cultural exchange.
As Nigeria continues to urbanize rapidly, Centenary City represents a forward-thinking model for addressing the challenges of population growth, infrastructure deficits, and economic diversification. The project aligns with the Federal Government’s broader vision of transforming Nigeria into a global economic powerhouse.
With Julius Berger already on-site and construction underway, the first phase of Centenary City is expected to take shape in the coming years, setting the foundation for a fully realized smart city. Stakeholders are optimistic that the project will meet its ambitious goals, delivering a world-class urban center that showcases Nigeria’s potential to the world.
For more information on the Centenary City Project, visit the official project website or contact Centenary City FZE. As Nigeria embarks on this transformative journey, Centenary City stands as a testament to the nation’s determination to build a future that rivals the best in the world.
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