Zhou Tong in Lekki, Lagos, Nigeria
Staying true to my mission through hands-on work in Lekki Lagoon
As an employee of the Hydraulic Engineering Division of China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation Nigeria Ltd., I returned from my first annual leave in 2025 and moved from the rear area to the front-line work zone of the Eletu-Odibo Land Reclamation Project in Lekki, Lagos.
Under the blazing Lagos sun and fighting off seasickness, I stayed on duty every day in the lagoon operation area, accurately carrying out key tasks such as inspecting and accepting sand-carrying barges, then measuring and deducting volumes.
During the final fourth-quarter sprint, sand-transport vessels continued operating without pause even during lunch hours. My colleagues and I remained on site throughout, fully transforming the theories learned on campus into practical, on-site skills, and doing everything possible to ensure steady progress of the reclamation project.
This experience became the most valuable mark of growth in my 2025 journey. From being a newcomer at the front line to being able to handle tasks independently, I witnessed my own transformation from theory to hands-on execution. By sharing these snapshots, I hope to show the perseverance of Chinese engineering staff on overseas construction front lines, and to record scenes of dedication and commitment on the vibrant construction grounds of Lagos, Nigeria. Despite the harsh sun and the challenge of seasickness, every step forward in the project filled me with a sense of achievement and gave me a deeper understanding of the responsibility and commitment carried by overseas engineers. This passion and perseverance are truly worth remembering and sharing.
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