By Jemimah Wellington, JKNewsMedia Reporter
BENEATH THE lights of Abuja’s Transcorp Hilton, Julius Berger Nigeria PLC orchestrated an evening of tributes, transition and forward-looking ambition as it formally bid farewell to its outgoing Board Chairman, Mutiu Sunmonu, CON, and welcomed his successor, Engr. Goni Sheikh.
The company, a cornerstone of Nigeria’s infrastructure evolution, used the high-profile gathering to reflect on a legacy of achievement and set the stage for a renewed era of growth.
With dignitaries from the corridors of power and business in attendance—including representatives of the Vice President, the House of Representatives, and federal ministers—the Congress Hall brimmed with applause and reflection.
It was, in the words of Managing Director Engr. Dr. Peer Lubasch, a rare and momentous event in the company’s 55-year history.
Since 1970, Julius Berger has been led by just seven chairmen. Lubasch praised that continuity, describing it as a testament to the enduring values that have set the company apart in Nigeria’s competitive construction landscape.
Sunmonu’s nine-year tenure was hailed as one of transformation and strategic growth. Under his chairmanship, Julius Berger expanded its construction activities beyond Nigeria’s borders, modernised its board practices, invested in human capital, and executed landmark projects including the Second Niger Bridge, the FAMFA Tower, and the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Lagos.
“He was a listening leader,” said Lubasch. “Steering from the background with wisdom and restraint, he balanced Board perspectives without micromanaging executive operations. His approach built harmony.
He was always approachable and insightful, with an uncanny ability to offer fresh perspectives through seasoned experience.”
Looking ahead, Lubasch described Sheikh as a fitting successor—someone who represents continuity and reliability. Sheikh, who has served on the Board since 2019, brings extensive public and private sector experience.
“His insights and professionalism have enriched our deliberations,” Lubasch noted, expressing confidence that Sheikh’s leadership will strengthen the company’s growth, innovation and diversification efforts.
Sunmonu, reflecting on his departure, said the event was not just a celebration of past achievements, but a confident nod toward the future.
“We’re not just celebrating our gigantic achievements in the last ten years,” he told the audience, “we are also celebrating a radically new and most successful future picture that we see ahead of Julius Berger.”
Addressing the presence of Minister of Works Engr. David Umahi, Sunmonu quashed any rumours of discord between the Ministry and the company. “He is my friend,” Sunmonu affirmed.
“There’s no problem between us. Like a father to a son, his demands stem from a place of deep concern and expectation. We are resetting that relationship, and with Engr.
Goni joining hands with our Managing Director, I am confident the relationship with the Ministry and the Federal Government will become one of the best in Nigeria.”
Sheikh, now at the company’s helm, echoed that sentiment with a clear message: Julius Berger’s ambitions are broadening. “We are expanding,” he said, “and for the first time, we are bringing foreign exchange back to our country to help strengthen the economy. We will work to excel in every new endeavour.”
He closed his remarks by paying tribute to Sunmonu’s leadership and pledging loyalty to the company’s mission, board, and employees.
The night also featured tributes from George Marks, Vice Chairman of the Board, and Dr. Ernest Azudialu-Obiejesi, OFR.
A representative of the Speaker of the House of Representatives praised Sunmonu’s vision, acknowledging his role in expanding Julius Berger’s influence across both federal and state-level projects.
