Julius Berger Raises Alarm Over Abuja Housing Crisis, Calls for Sustainable and Affordable Solutions

Julius Berger Nigeria Plc has highlighted growing challenges within the Federal Capital Territory’s construction sector, citing an oversupply of luxury estates, a widening housing deficit, weak policy enforcement, insecurity, and poor infrastructure as key issues undermining development in Abuja.

The company made this known during a one-day Construction Roundtable held at its corporate centre in Abuja.

Speaking at the event, Julius Berger’s Regional Manager, Central and North, Oliver Berger, said the capital city’s housing market suffers from an imbalance between supply and demand, as most developments target the high-end segment while affordable housing remains scarce.

He noted that high land costs, bureaucratic bottlenecks, and limited access to mortgages or rent-to-own options have placed homeownership beyond the reach of average income earners.
“Abuja currently faces an acute housing deficit. The oversupply of luxury estates, poor policy enforcement, and infrastructure gaps have led to a mismatch between what is being built and what people actually need,” Berger said.

He urged stakeholders to focus on durable, climate-resilient designs, and promote affordable, inclusive housing models backed by flexible financing schemes such as cooperative housing, mortgages, and rent-to-own options. Berger also called for smart urban planning, with efficient road layouts, green spaces, and pedestrian-friendly designs that support sustainable city growth.

In his remarks, Julius Berger’s Managing Director, Engr. Dr. Peer Lubasch, stressed that construction is “more than a technical task—it is a social responsibility.”
He said the company’s projects across Nigeria are built to last, adding that while initial construction costs may appear high, Julius Berger’s emphasis on energy efficiency, durability, and sustainability ensures long-term value.

Lubasch also highlighted the firm’s innovations, including locally manufactured insulated glazing (Evonig glass) and Nigeria’s first fully prefabricated unitised curtain wall, produced through its subsidiary, Abumet.

On road infrastructure, he noted that Julius Berger’s adoption of cold recycling technology — a method that is both cost-effective and environmentally friendly — aligns with international engineering standards and enhances road longevity.

He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to quality, innovation, and local content, saying Julius Berger will continue to “build structures that stand the test of time and drive sustainable growth across Nigeria.”