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52ND AGM: JULIUS BERGER DELIVERS HIGHEST DIVIDEND IN FIVE YEARS

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52ND AGM: JULIUS BERGER DELIVERS HIGHEST DIVIDEND IN FIVE YEARS

By Olorunfemi Adejuyigbe

 

52ND AGM: JULIUS BERGER DELIVERS HIGHEST DIVIDEND IN FIVE YEARS

L-R: Corporate Development Director, Tobias Meletschus, Company Secretary, Barr. Mrs Cecilia Madueke, Managing Director, Engr. Dr. Lars Richter, Chairman JB Nigeria, Mr. Mutiu Sunmonu, Director, Mrs Belinda Ajoke Disu, Chairman Julius Berger International, Dr. Ernest Azudialu-Obiejesi, Vice Chairman, Dr George Marks, Director Administration, Alh. Zubairu Ibrahim Bayi, and Financial Director, Christian Hausemann at the Julius Berger Annual General Meeting recently

Inside the venue of the 52nd Annual General Meeting of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc in Abuja recently, the excitement was pervasive and palpable. Dr Ernest Azudialu Obiejesi, chairman of Julius Berger International, beamed and buoyed in pride as the construction behemoth he superintends its international operations, once again, defied the headwinds of the 2021 financial year to meet its targets. His joy is understandable.

For the first time in five years, the foremost engineering construction company paid out its highest dividend to shareholders. Mr. Mutiu Sunmonu, Chairman of the Board of Julius Berger Nigeria PLC, said that although the company had challenges in the 2021 financial year, it excelled and overcame the challenges by dint of hard work and unflinching commitment to success by the management and staff.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

While presenting the Consolidated Financial Statements of the year under review, Sunmonu said that Julius Berger Nigeria Plc performed positively despite the numerous macro-economic hiccups which affected businesses during the year. He added that the company achieved exceptional financial performance, meeting targets for both revenue and cash flow. “One for those challenges, of course, is COVID-19, which remains ever present in our personal and professional lives – with prolonged consequences. Unfortunately, we are unable to put this virus behind us just yet,” he said.

The chairman declared that while 2021 was certainly a challenging year, “It was also a dynamic and industrious year. Within our core construction business, we made meaningful progress across our portfolio of private and public projects.” He listed the projects to include the International Worship Centre, Uyo; the Office of the National Security Adviser in Abuja, and the Bodo-Bonny Road as well as infrastructure projects in Lagos and Rivers States, where Sunmonu added that the company supported the state governments “to achieve a remarkable infrastructure transformation within the year.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Underscoring the shining example of trust the federal government placed on Julius Berger, the chairman harped on the priority projects of the government being financed via the Presidential Infrastructure Development Fund, saying that the company forged ahead with all of them including the Second River Niger Bridge and the Abuja-Kano Road “with our values, standards and capacities remaining core to our competitive edge.”

He stated that Julius Berger Nigeria Plc closed for the year under review “with a Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate of 0.19, equivalent to our 2020 results,” and that the various subsidiaries of the group also made reasonable progress in 2021.
Sunmonu promised that in 2022, “We will continue to work hard, remain resilient and champion progress in regard to the potentials ahead of us. We do not underestimate the effort or the endeavour it will take to achieve our vision, but we also do not underestimate our collective diligence and determination.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In his remarks to shareholders at the AGM, the Managing Director, Engr. Dr Lars Richter disclosed that the company stood strong in the year under review as the shareholders approved a N2.50k per share dividends. He said that the three pillars of Julius Berger’s business strategy – the core business, group subsidiaries and diversification – have remained central to all operations even as he shared an update on the company’s sustainability and inclusivity efforts, as well as on the company’s outlook for 2022 and beyond.

Richter declared, “Julius Berger continues to stand strong, our values are firmly in place and our reputation for reliable and quality delivery remains unmatched…. And within our core business we continue to realize meaningful progress across our portfolio of projects as a foundation for our continued success and growth.”

 

 

 

 

On the business trajectory of the company, Richter said Julius Berger continues to acquire new projects for major clients such as the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, Lagos and Port Harcourt State, the Federal Ministry of Works. Dr Richter also listed some successfully commissioned major projects to include the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation office, several flyovers and civil infrastructural works in Port Harcourt; and the Rehabilitated Control Towers at Tincan Island and the Lagos Port Complex.

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NEW BPP DG COMMITS TO EFFICIENCY AND STAFF WELFARE FOR IMPACTFUL SERVICE DELIVERY

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NEW BPP DG COMMITS TO EFFICIENCY AND STAFF WELFARE FOR IMPACTFUL SERVICE DELIVERY*

*_…begins review of bureau processes to enhance government procurement systems_*

The Director General of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), Dr Adebowale Adedokun, has outlined his vision to drive efficiency, enhance staff welfare, and reinforce the Bureau’s regulatory mandate in alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s renewed hope mandate and his commitment to improving Nigeria’s economy. This was made known during an interactive session with staff of the Bureau at the State House Banquet Hall on November 20, 2024. Dr Adedokun emphasised the urgency of delivering results as well as improving trust in the government procurement system to support President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, declaring, “Let us work together to get value for money for Nigeria’s developmental processes and achieve President Tinubu’s mandate of making Nigeria’s economy better.”

Furthermore, in a bid to strengthen operational efficiency, the DG also announced key reforms, including introducing Service Level Agreements for the bureau’s processes ensuring that letters are treated within 3 (three) days, and ensuring reports are completed within 14 (fourteen) days. He also highlighted plans to secure a sustainable budget that would improve the working environment and provide better welfare for staff.

Dr Adedokun firmly stated the Bureau’s resolve to uphold its regulatory integrity under his watch. He warned that officers are prohibited from visiting Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) unless on official assignments stressing the need for officers of the Bureau to stay above board. He further declared that contractors are no longer allowed within the Bureau’s premises to ensure that officers can perform their duties without undue interference and influence.

Calling for a collaborative approach, the DG urged staff to embody the Bureau’s regulatory values by adhering to procurement guidelines, avoiding delays, and striving for excellence. “As a regulator, you must be seen to be guided by the procurement process,” he stated. He assured the team of an open-door policy, encouraging innovative ideas that could propel the Bureau to greater heights.

The session also featured a visit from former DG, Engr. Emeka Ezeh, OFR, FNSE, who led the Bureau from 2009 to 2016. Engr. Ezeh commended President Tinubu for appointing Dr Adedokun and urged staff to provide their full support to the new leadership. He encouraged staff to focus on leaving a legacy of excellence, saying, “Work in a way that you will be celebrated wherever you go in life.”

Senior Directors, including Engr. Nasir Bello and Engr. Isaiah Yesufu reiterated the importance of supporting the DG’s vision while emphasizing adherence to the Bureau’s operational guidelines. Staff also welcomed the session, sharing their perspectives on improving the Bureau’s operations and pledging their support for the new leadership.

In a related development, Dr Adedokun sought collaboration with the Presidential Office of Digital Engagement and Strategy (PODES) led by its Head, Mr O’tega Ogra, who is also the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Digital/New Media, during a courtesy visit to his office on November 21, 2024. The DG emphasized the need to enhance the Bureau’s public engagement and visibility in line with the all-of-government communications approach being espoused by the PODES.

Mr Ogra congratulated Dr Adedokun on his appointment and highlighted the key role BPP plays in advancing Nigeria’s development agenda. O’tega further expressed his commitment to collaborating with the Bureau in amplifying its communication efforts and ensuring Nigerians understand and appreciate its critical role in national governance.

Dr Adedokun’s leadership marks a new chapter for the Bureau of Public Procurement, focused on accountability, efficiency, and impactful service delivery. His vision aligns seamlessly with the Federal Government’s goals of economic transformation and sustainable development as well as President Bola Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda.

Janet McDickson
Director, Information & Public Relations/Head, Media-BPP

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Abducted Rivers bizman rescued, suspected robber arrested

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Abducted Rivers bizman rescued, suspected robber arrested

 

The Rivers State Police Command said its men rescued a businessman identified as Julius Madabuchi, who was kidnapped by a four-man gang at a filling station in the Oyigbo Local Government Area of the state.

The police said the man was abducted when the miscreants who were driving in a Black Toyota car stormed the area and started shooting discriminately before executing their plan.

The rescue of the man, the police said, followed a distress call sent to the command control room about the activities of the hoodlums on November 17 and immediately mobilised operatives to the scene, saying the abductors engaged the police in a shootout.

The spokesperson for the state police command, Grace Iringe-Koko, disclosed this in a statement issued in Port Harcourt, Rivers State capital, on Wednesday.

 

The statement reads, “On the 17th of November, 2014, at about 2023hrs, operatives of the command received a distress call from the Room indicating that a gang of armed men numbering about four operating in a Black colour Toyota Corolla car shot sporadically and kidnapped one Madabuchi Julius at Sabbath Filling Station, Oyigbo.

“Operatives were swiftly mobilised to the scene and the hoodlums on sighting the police operatives drove off, but they were given a hot chase by the operatives and subsequently intercepted along Egbu Street, Oyigbo and a gun duel ensued between the operatives and the hoodlums.

“The hoodlums could not withstand the police’s superior firepower and eventually abandoned the victim and their operational vehicle with registration number RIVERS PHC 938 AH and escaped. The victim was rescued unhurt and the vehicle recovered. He has since reunited with his family.”

 

The state police image maker however said an investigation is ongoing while concerted efforts are being intensified to apprehend other fleeing members of the gang and recover their operational weapons.

In a related development, Iringe-Koko said the following day, precisely on Monday, operatives of the command acted on credible information, coordinated a covert operation at the St Lorinta Street, Oyigbo and arrested one Gabriel Morris, aged 25, at Mercy Ground in Kom-Kom, Oyigbo LGA of the State.

The state police spokesperson stated, “During interrogation, the suspect confessed to being a member of a syndicate that had been terrorising Oyigbo and its environs in recent times.

 

Iringe-Koko, a Superintendent of Police, listed items recovered from the suspect including one locally made pistol and a quantity of weeds suspected to be Indian hemp.

She added, “Investigation is ongoing, while concerted efforts are intensified to apprehend other fleeing members of the syndicate.

“This successful operation further demonstrates the effectiveness of the Rivers State Police Command in combating kidnapping and all other forms of crime in the state.”

 

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Celebrate Your Wins, No Matter How Small-Prudent Ludidi

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Those who wronged you may never say "I'm sorry" - Prudent Ludidi

Celebrate Your Wins, No Matter How Small-Prudent Ludidi

 

Today, I want to talk about something incredibly important, yet often overlooked: celebrating our wins. Yes, you heard that right – celebrating our wins, no matter how small.

We live in a world that constantly pushes us to achieve more, be more, and do more. We’re always striving for the next goal, the next milestone, the next achievement. And while ambition is great, it’s equally important to acknowledge and celebrate the small victories along the way.

Think about it. How often do you achieve something amazing, only to dismiss it as “not a big deal” or “just part of your job”? How often do you downplay your successes or attribute them to luck rather than your hard work and dedication?

Here’s the thing: every win, no matter how small, is worth celebrating. Every achievement, no matter how insignificant it may seem, is a testament to your strength, resilience, and determination.

Celebrating your wins does several things. Firstly, it boosts your confidence and self-esteem. When you acknowledge your achievements, you remind yourself of your capabilities and potential.

Secondly, celebrating your wins helps you stay motivated and focused. By recognizing your progress, you’re more likely to stay committed to your goals and keep pushing forward.

Thirdly, celebrating your wins fosters a positive mindset. When you focus on what you’ve achieved, rather than dwelling on what’s still to be done, you cultivate gratitude, happiness, and contentment.

So, how can you start celebrating your wins?

Start small. Write down three things you’ve accomplished each day before bed. Share your achievements with a friend or family member. Treat yourself to something special.

Celebrate the tiny victories: finishing a difficult project, trying a new recipe, or simply making it through a tough day.

Celebrate the milestones: landing a new job, running a marathon, or graduating from college.

And celebrate the moments in between: learning a new skill, making a new connection, or taking a much-needed break.

Remember, celebrating your wins isn’t about being arrogant or boastful. It’s about acknowledging your hard work and dedication. It’s about recognizing your worth and value.

Don’t wait until you’ve achieved something “big” to celebrate. Celebrate every win, no matter how small. Celebrate every achievement, no matter how insignificant it may seem.

You are worthy of recognition. You are worthy of celebration. And you are worthy of acknowledging your own strength and resilience!

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