By Chris Nyamtu
The Nasarawa State Government has commenced the process for the award of contracts for the construction of 30 secondary schools under the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) Project.
Speaking at the bid-opening ceremony in Lafia, the State Commissioner for Education, Dr. John Mamman, said the initiative is aimed at expanding access to quality education, empowering the girl-child, and equipping young people with skills for sustainable livelihoods and productive careers.
The exercise brought together key stakeholders involved in the implementation of the AGILE Project, including heads of ministries, departments and agencies, representatives of development partners, and officials of the World Bank, to ensure a transparent, credible and seamless procurement process.
In his remarks, Dr. Mamman noted that the opening of the contract bids reflected the commitment of the administration of Governor Abdullahi Sule to the principles of transparency, accountability and inclusiveness in governance.
According to him, the state government has remained steadfast in its support for the AGILE Project as a strategic intervention designed to provide a brighter future for the girl-child and young people through improved access to education, skills acquisition and career development opportunities.
The Commissioner assured stakeholders that the government would maintain strict monitoring and supervision of all awarded contracts to ensure quality execution in accordance with approved specifications and standards.
Also speaking, the State Project Coordinator of AGILE, Hajiya Aisha Aliyu Isoga, described the opening of the contract bids as a significant milestone in the implementation of the programme in Nasarawa State.
She called on traditional rulers, community leaders and other stakeholders to take ownership of the projects in their respective communities to ensure their sustainability and maximize benefits for the girl-child.
Representatives of the 53 firms that submitted bids for the contracts were also present at the ceremony.
The 30 secondary schools are to be constructed across the three senatorial zones of the state and will feature smart learning facilities, furnished classrooms, modern sanitation facilities, and Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) systems.
Source: Radio Nigeria