By Abbanobi -Eku Onyekachi, Abuja
Julius Berger Nigeria Plc (JBN) has tendered an apology to the Senate President, Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio, and the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, Distinguished Senator Barinada Mpigi, for missing a previous meeting regarding the investigative hearing on the Odukpani-Itu-Ikot Ekpene Road.
In a letter dated January 10, 2025, JBN attributed its absence to miscommunication during its leadership transition. The company’s new Managing Director, Engr. Dr. Peer Lubasch, had just assumed office and was being briefed on ongoing projects.
JBN assured the Senate of its utmost respect for the National Assembly and its commitment to collaborative governance. The company expressed its readiness to partner with the National Assembly and the Federal Government to deliver projects that benefit Nigerians, address infrastructural challenges, and create jobs.
The apology comes after the Senate summoned Lubasch over Julius Berger’s refusal to honour invitations to provide details on the Odukpani-Itu Highway project, which connects Cross River State and Akwa Ibom State ¹. The company had received substantial public funds amounting to over ₦18 billion for the project.
JBN has promised to attend the next committee meeting and looks forward to continued collaboration with the Senate. The company’s apology is seen as a positive step towards resolving the issues surrounding the Odukpani-Itu-Ikot Ekpene Road project.
