Biodun Esan, Ilorin
Kwara State is to establish an industrial park at Eiyenkorin in Asa Local Government Area of the state.
A statement by the Commissioner for Communication, Abubakar Saddiq Buhari on Saturday in Ilorin, also said 5he the government will establish
a Shea butter processing factory in Kaiama.
These initiatives, the commissioner said would hasten industrialisation, provide more jobs for the people, and widen the state’s economic base.
Buhari said government has approved the award of the first phase of the industrial park to Messrs Fab Confidential Ltd at the cost of N1,021,039,165.63.
“The first phase comprises perimeter fence, entrance gate and lay-by, concrete pavement, road, drainage, and car park and power supply.
“The project will be funded through the state’s recently accessed bond. The industrial park will occupy 196 hectares of land comprising residential buildings, facility manager’s house, wood processing section, agro processing section, commercial section, metal and minerals processing, and green area, among others,” Buhari said.
He added that the council also approved the establishment of a well-equipped 50-ton capacity Shea nut processing factory.
The primary processing facilities will be sited at Kaiama and Kemanji.
The commissioner said that the contract was awarded to SAO-Agro Allied Services at the cost of N2,598,000,000.00 following a certified procurement process involving other bidders.
The project, when completed will provide job opportunities for over 10,000 women and youths involved in Shea nut business and improve their livelihood through better revenue, improved nutrition and life chances.
He added that the establishment of Shea nut processing factory will boost agricultural output through adoption of modern processing technologies, empower youths and womenfolks, reduce poverty, increase volume of trade and economic activities, attract more investments, and transform Kwara to more viable state.
He said the effort means that Kwara will properly tap into the global demand for Shea nut produce valued at $30 billion.
The cabinet similarly approved the purchase and installation of equipment and machines for the ongoing Sugar Factory Studios in Ilorin, awarded to POV Studios Limited at the cost of N420,250,000.
Following a memo presented by the Head of Service Mrs. Oluwole Susan, the council approved the absorption into the civil service of 60 former permanent staff of the Kwara Hotels.
The council also considered the absorption of 12 other adhoc staff of the hotel if they meet the criteria for the civil service.
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