Rescue operations intensified Thursday in Port Harcourt after the collapse of a 5‑storey building under construction along Dr. Peter Odili Road near Eterna Filling Station, with leading construction company, Julius Berger Plc, other construction firms stepping in to support emergency efforts.
The structure collapsed about 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, trapping an unspecified number of construction workers and leaving residents of the Rivers state capital in shock. The incident occurred less than 24 hours after another building collapse in the city, further raising concerns about construction safety standards.
Eyewitnesses said several labourers were working in and around the building when it suddenly gave way. Early estimates indicated that at least seven persons were trapped beneath the rubble as rescue efforts commenced immediately, with local residents, emergency responders, and security personnel working collaboratively to reach victims buried under the debris.
By Wednesday evening, three individuals had been rescued alive, while intensive search efforts continued to locate others.
Julius Berger Nigeria Plc played a critical role in the ongoing operations, deploying a range of heavy-duty and specialized equipment to support the rescue mission. These included excavators for debris removal, mobile cranes for lifting heavy concrete slabs, wheel loaders for clearing rubble, and dump trucks for transporting debris away from the site.
Speaking on the company’s involvement, Julius Berger’s Regional Manager for South-South, Engr. Rimon Marisho, reaffirmed the firm’s commitment to public safety and community support. According to him, the company remains driven by a strong belief in contributing to meaningful progress, particularly in times of emergency.
“At Julius Berger, we believe there are limitless opportunities for the company, the community, and the country to make tangible progress. This belief compels us to save lives and property by actively participating in rescue operations in collaboration with relevant stakeholders,” he said.
Rescue operations were still ongoing as of Thursday, with Julius Berger and other agencies maintaining coordinated efforts to locate any remaining victims.