By Correspondent in Lokoja.
The World Bank has approved the rehabilitation of one livestock market in each of the nine federal constituencies in Kogi state in the first phase of the project.
The Project Coordinator of the project, Mr. Abdulkabir Otaru, disclosed this on Friday at the Bid Opening ceremony for the project at Kogi Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support (Kogi L-PRES) Project office in Lokoja.
He described the initiative as a “new dawn” in Kogi’s livestock value chain, assuring stakeholders of transparency and fairness throughout the bidding process.
He commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for his unwavering support toward improving agricultural productivity in the state.
“We have secured World Bank approval for one livestock market rehabilitation in each of Kogi’s nine federal constituencies,” he said, adding that all relevant stakeholders had been engaged to ensure smooth implementation.
He urged the eventual contractor to deliver quality work within the specified timeframe, in line with global best practices, noting that the initiative would boost farmers’ incomes and strengthen the livestock value chain.
The Commissioner for Livestock Development, Dr. Olufemi Bolarin, said the project would revitalise a critical sector of Kogi’s economy and enhance food security.
“The modernised markets will provide hygienic and efficient trading spaces that meet international standards, improving both livelihoods and market operations,” he stated.
Represented by the Director of Livestock, Mr. Ali Peter, the commissioner emphasised the need for transparency and strict compliance with procurement guidelines.
Also speaking, the acting Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. HadiAbdulsalam , commended Governor Ododo for his commitment to transforming livestock development in the state, expressing confidence that the project would contribute significantly to Kogi’s economic growth.
Kogi L-PRES Procurement Officer, Mr. Adeolu Oshadare, disclosed that five companies submitted bids valued between ₦1.22 billion and ₦2.12 billion.
He said the project, advertised on September 12, attracted submissions by October 10 from qualified firms, including:
Nuelika Infinity Ltd (₦1.54bn),Izyprecs Ltd (₦1.55bn),
Emmanuel-NIK & Gold Ltd (₦1.47bn),
RSA Global Ltd (₦1.22bn),and
Numora Integrated Ltd (₦2.12bn).
Oshadare said the evaluation committee would assess the bids within the next week before announcing the successful contractor.
The Chairman of the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply, Kogi branch, Prof. Usman Omeiza, lauded the transparent process and urged all stakeholders to maintain accountability throughout the project’s execution.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
