In an ongoing effort to inspire the next generation of engineers, project managers, and built environment professionals, APD Project Management Limited recently concluded a series of highly immersive and educational excursions to one of Africa’s most ambitious urban developments: Eko Atlantic City. These site visits, which spanned several days in July and August 2025, were designed to give students a firsthand look at large-scale engineering, advanced building technologies, and the real-world application of project management principles.

The journey began with preparatory visits to the University of Lagos (UNILAG), where the APD team met with the Heads of the Building and Civil Engineering Departments—Professor John Ameh and Dr. K. A. Olonade, respectively. These meetings were crucial in aligning academic curricula with industry demands and fostering a partnership aimed at exposing students to contemporary construction practices. It was clear from these discussions that both faculty and students were eager to move beyond the classroom and witness engineering excellence in action.

With enthusiasm high, APD Project Management Limited orchestrated multi-day excursions to accommodate the overwhelming number of students from various levels—100 to 500—as well as Master’s students from the Centre for Housing and Sustainable Development. The destination was the iconic Azuri Towers, a 32-story architectural marvel situated in the heart of Eko Atlantic.

A City Born from the Sea: The Story of Eko Atlantic

Each excursion day began with an inspiring overview of Eko Atlantic’s genesis. Through a professionally produced video presentation and sessions led by representatives from the Azuri Towers marketing and operations teams, students learned how what was once an area threatened by severe coastal erosion has been transformed into a modern, sustainable city built on land reclaimed from the Atlantic Ocean.

To date, more than 6.5 million square meters of land have been recovered, with a projected total of 10 million square kilometers upon completion. A key engineering highlight discussed was the use of macropores—5-tonne stones sourced locally from Ogun State—which play a critical role in stabilizing the reclaimed land and protecting the shoreline. This innovative approach not only prevents erosion but also provides a solid foundation for high-rise constructions, showcasing Nigerian ingenuity and material resourcefulness.

Inside Azuri Towers: A Lesson in Intelligent Building Systems

Guided by the building’s operations staff, students explored the behind-the-scenes engineering that keeps Azuri Towers functioning seamlessly. They were introduced to the lift system powered by a Sub-Main Distribution Board (SMDB) and an Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS), ensuring uninterrupted operation even during power transitions. The group also toured the water pumping chambers, where color-coded valves—each indicating function, speed, and location—demonstrate a high level of operational clarity and emergency readiness, significantly mitigating fire risks.

Another standout feature was the cloud-based monitoring room equipped with CVR technology, which allows for virtually unlimited video storage and real-time surveillance—a testament to how digital innovation is being integrated into modern building management.

Leadership Insights: Blending Legacy with Future Vision

A memorable part of each excursion was the address by Mr. Andy Jibunoh, Managing Director of APD Project Management Limited. Reflecting on his early career with COSTAIN and his role as coordinator for NECOM House (currently Nigeria’s tallest building), Mr. Jihunoh drew parallels between the engineering feats of the past and the transformative projects of today. He emphasized that the goal of these visits was not only to showcase advanced technology but also to instill a sense of responsibility and vision in the students—urging them to become proactive contributors to Nigeria’s infrastructural growth.

Hands-On Learning: Site Tours and Practical Exposure

Following the indoor sessions, students were taken to active construction sites within Eko Atlantic, such as Clarence Gate. Under the guidance of APD project managers including Mr. Victor Bankole, Engr. Segun Megabi, Mr Ocholi Sunday, Mr Gerald Ibeanu, Mr Femi Awofusi and Mr. Femi Akinyemi, they observed ongoing basement construction, formwork installation, MEP coordination, and ceiling finishes. These live demonstrations helped bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical execution, allowing students to understand sequencing, safety protocols, and quality assurance on a real project.

Building Futures, One Site Visit at a Time

The APD Project Management Limited excursions to Eko Atlantic were more than just field trips—they were a strategic investment in the future of Nigeria’s construction industry. By exposing students to landmark projects and involving them in dialogues with industry leaders, APD has helped cultivate a deeper appreciation for engineering, project management, and sustainable development.

These experiences underscore APD’s commitment to education, mentorship, and industry-academia collaboration. As these students return to their lectures with renewed perspective and inspiration, it is clear that they are not just the builders of tomorrow—they are the visionaries who will shape the skyline of Nigeria for decades to come.