A total of 795 staff of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc were at the weekend recognised by the company at its 2024 Long Service Awards ceremony held in Abuja.

Out of the 795 staff who received the awards, 134 have reached the 10-year milestone, 269 have devoted 15 years in service of the company, 71 have marked 20 years, 298 have given 25 years of service, 13 staff have served 30 years, and 10 exceptional staff have clocked 35 years in service.

Speaking at the event, the Managing Director of Julius Berger, Engr Peer Lubasch, underscored the unique contribution of staff of the organisation to its landmark growth over the years, emphasising the need for sustained unity to achieve greater success.

According to Lubasch, the workers‘ commitment has not only driven Julius Berger forward, it has also left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s development.

He said the celebration was even more extraordinary because 537 of the honorees, making up 68 per cent, are employed in Abuja and exemplify a remarkable backbone of the company’s operations.

“Your contributions are the bedrock of our continued growth and innovation. Your resilience, expertise and passion define who we are as a company, a beacon of excellence in the construction industry,” Lubasch said.

He charged the staff on greater contributions to the overall growth of the company, saying, “As we celebrate your achievements, let us remember that our shared values of collaboration, courage, responsibility and excellence remain our guiding light. Together, we will continue building a legacy that inspires generations to come.”

The Director of Administration, Alh. Abdulaziz Kaita, reminded the 795 awardees of the need for sustained unity to achieve greater success.

He described the event as an auspicious occasion for rewarding the exceptional dedication and unwavering loyalty of staff, adding that though it was a celebration of those who have shown remarkable commitment to Julius Berger, it was of a personal significance to him as it marked not only his new role as Director of Administration at JBN effective January 1, 2024, but also his 35th anniversary with the company.

Kaita said Lusbach, who assumed office recently as Managing Director, was well equipped to lead the company into the future with his expertise in analytical decision-making, problem-solving, communication, conflict management and teamwork.

Praising the workers’ unions for their continued support, Kaita said, “I would also like to express gratitude to the members of our unions, CCESSA and NUCECFWW, for their ongoing collaboration and commitment to improving the wellbeing of Nigerian workers. This has been evident in our joint efforts, such as the signing of the NJC agreement, which continues to promote mutual benefit.”

He motivated all to work harder, saying, “With the unwavering support of our partners and friends, we can conquer all challenges and achieve remarkable success. Let us continue to advance with strength, unity and determination.”

Recipients of the awards were full of praises for the company and the opportunity to serve in a conglomerate, with many saying if given the opportunity, they would still continue to serve even with greater commitment.

The event featured traditional dances from sections of the country and presentation of the award plaques to deserving staff by the directors and top staff of the company.