Kogi Commissioner for Transportation, Hon. Atuluku Levi Victor, reaffirmed the State Government’s unwavering support commitment to infrastructural development.
The Commissioner gave the affirmation today during the opening session of technical proposals for the main construction of Kogi State International Airport.
He stated that the decision of the ambitious project is driven by the urgent need to boost connectivity, facilitate trade and promote investmentsl opportunities within and beyond the stated.
“The sterling project will not only strengthen our transportation network, but also serves as a catalyst for economic growth tourism and job creation.” He added.
Atuluku stressed that the procurement stage is crucial as it ensures that only technically competent and capable firms will proceed to the next phase of the bidding process.
Additionally, he emphasized that all proposals will be thoroughly and objectively reviewed by team of experts and bidders who meet the technical requirements will be invited to participate in the financial bidding stage at a later date.
The Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Transportation, ESV Baiyegunsi Samuel Taiwo, in his address, stated that this history making event, is an essential step up in the ministry’s commitment to fairness, transparency and due process in public procurement, noting that the participation of various stake bidders underscores their collective dedication to up hold integrity and accountability in the procurement process.
Speaking at the event, Director Gen Bureau of Public procurement Barr Sunday Joshua Ehimoni positively stated that the construction of the international airport when completed will be a legacy project that will be remember for the rest of human existence, stressing that laudable project of this magnitude must be accorded all the rules and regulations to ensure accountability, fitness of purpose and accountability.
He added that, it is significant to note that Kogi State has policies that ensure increased participation of local and experienced contractors that are recognized from on set, with sense of belonging and responsibility.
Barr Sunday disclosed that the current administration is on the look for competence, expertise and professionalism,hence the need to speed up construction to avoid over concentration in the hand of one contractor.
Director General Government House Administration, Hon Oricha Shuaibu also affirmed that the construction of international airport will attract foreign investors, thereby expanding the business corridor and ecosystem of the state.
He went further to say that the accomplishments of the laudable project under the current administration will change the narrative of the transportation sector of the state.
Public opening of the bids received, confirmation of number of tender received and statement of Procurement, Guidelines and Procedures handled by team of experts marked the peak of the event.
In attendance were, the representative of Secretary to the Government of Kogi State, Aturu Bartholomew, Hon Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Hon Muhammed Muktar Shuaibu, DG Bureau of Land, Hon TPL Kehinde Augustine, Permanent secretary Ministry of Housing and Urban Development ESV Zainab Obadaki, Executive Director Renaissance Care and Empowerment Forum (RECEF) Amb Idris Ozovehe Muraina among others.
