What does transporting building materials have to do with constructing some of Nigeria’s most iconic infrastructure? Julius Berger, born in 1862 in Zempelburg, Germany, began an unexpected journey that would lead to the creation of a global construction empire.

His initial apprenticeship with a leather wholesale firm in Berlin took an interesting turn when he became involved in transporting building materials, an experience that sparked his interest in the construction sector.

In 1905, Berger founded Julius Berger Civil Engineering AG, a company recognized for constructing roads, drainage systems, and railways across Europe and beyond. The company’s projects spanned Turkey, Iran, Romania, and Egypt, establishing a strong international presence.

Despite the tragic loss of Berger and his wife in a concentration camp during World War II, the company was revived. In 1965, Julius Berger secured its first project in Nigeria with the construction of the Eko Bridge, marking a pivotal moment in the company’s history. The Eko Bridge still stands strong as a testament to Julius Berger’s leadership in delivering quality.

Julius Berger Nigeria Plc has since become a leading construction company in the country, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s infrastructure development. The company has been involved in numerous key projects, including the Tin Can Island Port, Ajaokuta Steel Plant, the Third Mainland Bridge, Abuja Stadium, and Abuja International Airport.

The company has also pioneered sustainable infrastructure networks and pioneered the use of pipe-jacking technology in large-scale drainage projects.

Today, Julius Berger is recognized as Nigeria’s most valuable brand in building and construction. The company has also won awards for its reliability and highway construction. With a workforce of over 18,000, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc continues to strengthen its core construction business and contribute to the growth and prosperity of Nigeria.