Regulatory Overlap Hinders Infrastructure Projects in Nigeria

Cecilia Ekanem Maduek, the company secretary of Julius Berger, spoke at the Nigeria Employers' Consultative Association (NECA) summit held in Abuja. During her presentation, she addressed the issue of regulatory overlap that is causing delays in infrastructure projects.

Maduek highlighted the complexity of managing stakeholder interests across federal, state, and local government levels, noting that successful infrastructure delivery requires engagement with host communities. She cited a specific example involving a road project in South-South Nigeria, where the relocation of a shrine became a significant issue requiring extensive community engagement.

Maduek stressed that infrastructure delivery relies not only on engineering expertise and funding but also on establishing the right relationships with communities. She pointed out that identifying regulatory risks early in the process is crucial to minimizing delays and improving project outcomes.

Maduek concluded that enhancing Nigeria's business environment necessitates collaboration among government, the private sector, and host communities.