By Our Correspondent
Beijing, China — In a bid to enhance Nigeria’s construction sector through knowledge exchange and global exposure, Deputy Project Manager of CGC Nigeria Limited, Engr. Lucky Abubakar, has led a delegation of Nigerian engineers on a technical excursion to China.
The visit focused on studying modern infrastructure projects, construction technologies, and manufacturing processes with the goal of adapting them for local application in Nigeria.
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The team, made up of senior and junior engineers from CGC Nigeria Ltd, toured several high-tech construction sites and factories across Beijing and other regions. Their areas of study included modern road construction techniques, technical underpasses, overhead flyovers, smart drainage systems, reinforced concrete bridge designs, and integrated traffic control models.
Speaking during the tour, Engr. Abubakar emphasized the importance of practical exposure to advanced engineering systems. “It is not just about reading manuals or attending conferences. Seeing these processes on-site and engaging with experts directly helps us better understand how to localize these innovations back home,” he said.
One of the key aspects of the visit was an in-depth inspection of skyscraper construction projects. The engineers engaged with leading Chinese structural firms responsible for developing buildings rising up to 50 storeys. The team reviewed designs, foundation layouts, seismic precautions, and high-rise safety systems—insights critical to supporting Nigeria’s fast-growing urban infrastructure demands.
This visit marks another milestone in Engr. Abubakar’s ongoing commitment to professional development and innovation. Over the years, he has participated in multiple capacity-building programs in Asia, focusing on civil engineering, site management, and technical support systems needed for modern infrastructure development.
In addition to technical learning, the trip served as a platform for international networking. Engr. Abubakar has cultivated valuable relationships with global construction companies, equipment manufacturers, and technical solution providers. These connections have not only benefitted CGC Nigeria but also created community development opportunities in his native Kogi State.
One practical impact of these partnerships was his collaboration with solar lighting manufacturers during a previous visit. This led to the purchase and distribution of solar-powered streetlights to his home village Imane in Olamaboro Local Government and other parts of Igala land, improving security and night-time visibility in rural communities.
His influence has also opened doors for employment opportunities for youths in the region. Several sons and daughters of Igala land now work with CGC and other engineering firms, with some being prepared for similar international training programs in the coming year.
Upon returning to Nigeria, Engr. Abubakar is expected to conduct in-house training sessions for CGC staff across all levels. The sessions will also extend to artisans, unskilled labourers, and technical assistants working along the company’s various construction corridors. This, he said, would ensure that the knowledge acquired abroad is transferred to those on the ground.
“There’s no point going abroad to learn if that knowledge stays with just a few,” he stated. “Everyone—from engineers to site workers—has a role to play in improving the quality and safety of our infrastructure.”
The trip also included visits to notable institutions and landmarks that demonstrate China’s holistic approach to infrastructure and technology. These included the China Science and Technology Museum, Beijing Urban Planning Exhibition Hall, National Museum of China, Beijing Institute of Architectural Design (BIAD), Tongzhou Modern Transport Hub, and the China State Construction Engineering Corporation (CSCEC) Headquarters.
As Nigeria continues to seek solutions to its infrastructure deficit, excursions like this are proving to be an effective tool for capacity building and innovation transfer. Engr. Lucky Abubakar’s leadership and dedication to professional excellence continue to serve as a model for the engineering community and a source of inspiration for emerging professionals in the sector.
