The Kogi government has launched a major initiative to rehabilitate nine livestock markets across the three senatorial districts of the state.

The bid opening ceremony for the project was held on Friday at the Kogi State Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support (Kogi L-PRES) Project office in Lokoja.

Project coordinator, Abdulkabir Otaru, underscored the importance of the initiative and assured stakeholders of a transparent and fair process.

Mr Otaru described the rehabilitation effort as a new dawn in Kogi’s livestock value chain and commended Governor Ahmed Ododo for his unwavering support.

He revealed that the World Bank had approved the project, covering nine livestock markets in the first phase across the state’s nine federal constituencies.

“We’ve secured World Bank approval for one livestock market rehabilitation in each of Kogi’s nine federal constituencies,” Mr Otaru said.

He added that all relevant stakeholders had been engaged to ensure a smooth bidding process and successful project execution.

Mr Otaru urged the winning contractor to deliver quality work within the specified timeframe, in line with global best practices.

He noted that Mr Ododo’s support for L-PRES had been instrumental in improving farmers’ livelihoods and boosting the state’s economy.

The project coordinator explained that rehabilitating the markets would enhance productivity and strengthen the livestock value chain across the state.

Commissioner for livestock development, Olufemi Bolarin, said the initiative would revitalise the livestock sector, vital to Kogi’s economy and food security.

“The modernised markets will improve trading conditions, boost livelihoods, and provide hygienic and efficient spaces that meet international standards,” Mr Bolarin said.

Represented by the director of livestock, Ali Peter, the commissioner stressed the need for transparency and strict compliance with bidding guidelines.

Permanent secretary in the ministry, Abdulsalam Hadi, commended the governor for his dedication to transforming livestock development in Kogi.

He expressed confidence that the project would succeed and contribute significantly to the state’s economic growth.

Kogi L-PRES procurement officer, Adeolu Oshadare, disclosed that five companies submitted bids valued between N1.22 billion and N2.12 billion.

He said the project was advertised on 12 September, and bids were received by 10 October from qualified companies.

According to Mr Oshadare, the bids include: Nuelika Infinity Ltd. (N1.54 billion), Izyprecs Ltd. (N1.55 billion), Emmanuel-NIK & Gold Ltd. (N1.47 billion), RSA Global Ltd. (N1.22 billion), and Numora Integrated Ltd. (N2.12 billion).

He added that the evaluation committee would assess the bids within the next week before the final selection.

Chairman of the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply, Kogi branch, Usman Omeiza, commended the transparent bidding process.

Mr Omeiza urged stakeholders to sustain transparency and accountability throughout the execution of the project.

(NAN)