Julius Berger Nigeria Plc has strengthened its partnership with Enactus Nigeria to support young innovators developing sustainable solutions for Nigeria’s construction sector.
The collaboration forms part of the Julius Berger Innovation Challenge (JBIC) 2026 Mentorship Programme. The initiative gives students practical guidance, industry exposure and entrepreneurial support as they work on solutions to challenges across the construction value chain.
Under the programme, undergraduate students from tertiary institutions across Nigeria developed ideas focused on improving construction practices and promoting sustainability.
Students Develop Solutions for Construction Challenges
The programme challenged participants to look beyond classroom theory and tackle real problems affecting the built environment.
Students explored areas such as sustainable construction materials, resource efficiency, waste management and energy performance.
They also considered solutions for climate resilience, affordable housing and smart infrastructure.
Through mentorship from industry professionals, participants gained a better understanding of how innovative ideas can move from concepts to practical solutions.
Enactus Nigeria Hails Partnership
Enactus Nigeria Country Director Michael Ajayi described the partnership with Julius Berger as an investment in the future of Nigeria’s construction industry.
He said the programme gives students an opportunity to develop technical knowledge, entrepreneurial skills and leadership abilities.
Ajayi also highlighted the quality of the ideas presented during the challenge.
According to him, the students demonstrated creativity and resilience while developing concepts with potential applications in sustainable construction.
He added that continued support could help some of the ideas grow into solutions with wider impact across the industry.
Julius Berger Highlights Role of Innovation
Speaking at the grand finale, Julius Berger Nigeria’s Chief Risk Officer, Shakira Mustapha, said the initiative went beyond a conventional student competition.
She described the event as a celebration of creativity, collaboration and the potential of young Nigerians to influence the future of the built environment.
Mustapha explained that the Innovation Challenge aims to give students a platform to address environmental and social challenges facing the construction industry.
She further noted that the sector will increasingly require fresh ideas alongside traditional engineering expertise.
Focus on Sustainable Construction
The 2026 challenge placed strong emphasis on sustainability.
Participants explored ways to reduce construction waste, improve the use of resources and develop more sustainable materials.
They also examined energy efficiency and climate resilience while considering the need for affordable housing and smarter infrastructure.
These areas are becoming increasingly important as the construction sector faces growing pressure to reduce environmental impact while meeting rising infrastructure needs.
Supporting Nigeria’s Next Generation of Innovators
The partnership between Julius Berger and Enactus Nigeria also reflects the growing importance of collaboration between industry and higher education.
By connecting students with experienced professionals, the programme gives young innovators a clearer understanding of the construction industry’s needs.
It also provides an avenue for companies to discover fresh ideas and emerging talent.
Both organisations expressed confidence in the ability of Nigerian students to develop practical responses to the country’s infrastructure and sustainability challenges.
The initiative therefore positions youth innovation as an important part of efforts to build a more sustainable and resilient construction industry in Nigeria.
For more information about Julius Berger Nigeria and its corporate initiatives, visit the Julius Berger Nigeria official website.
