The Managing Director of Centenary City, Dr. Ikechukwu Odenigwe Jr., says the Centenary City project is strategically designed to redefine Abuja’s urban landscape and attract global investment into Nigeria’s capital.
Speaking at an investors’ engagement forum in Abuja recently, Odenigwe said stakeholders reviewed infrastructure progress, investment prospects, and expansion plans for the smart city project.
“Centenary City is designed to create value, encourage international investment and enhance Abuja’s profile as a globally competitive urban destination,” he said.
He described the development as a 15-minute smart city concept covering about 1,300 hectares, with over 1,000 hectares earmarked for active development. According to him, the project is driven by a consortium of more than 40 local and international investors, with the Federal Government participating through Abuja Investment Company Limited.
Odenigwe noted that the project was master-planned by Sheikh Mohammed Alabbar, Chairman of Emaar, with Eagle Hills International as pioneer strategic partner. He added that Centenary City attained Free Zone status in 2014, leading to the creation of dedicated free zone entities to guide implementation.
He stressed that the role of the master developer is not to compete with investors but to ensure development aligns with the original vision. “The idea is to engage reputable developers capable of delivering infrastructure and urban systems consistent with the original smart city concept,” he said.
He listed key components of the project to include five-star hotels, luxury residences, convention centres, industrial parks, healthcare facilities, golf and polo estates, and entertainment districts, all built around sustainability principles.
Also speaking, a representative of Julius Berger, Johnny Houchan, said the company has achieved 47 per cent completion of Phase One road infrastructure within six months, including a 4.3-kilometre four-lane carriageway, drainage systems, and utility networks.
He expressed optimism that delivery would be completed ahead of schedule.
Director of Sales at Centenary City, Mr Kenneth Njoku, highlighted investment incentives under the “First Movers Advantage” scheme, including zero-premium joint venture structures, 40 per cent land purchase discounts, and flexible payment plans, urging investors to seize the opportunity.
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