₦27.8 Billion to Build Information and Communication Technology and Computer-based Test Centres Across All 44 Local Government Areas

Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Mohammed Tajo-Othman, announced the awards during a ceremony at the ministry on Tuesday in Kano, according to a statement by the ministry's Public Relations Officer, Aminu Bello-Sani. The commissioner said the initiative aims to expand access to digital learning, e-examinations, and technology skills for young people at the grassroots, describing it as a historic milestone for the state. "This historic achievement would not have been possible without the vision and foresight of Gov.

Abba Kabir-Yusuf, Tajo-Othman said. "By bringing ICT/CBT centres to every local government area, we are taking digital opportunities closer to our people and preparing our youth for the future. Each centre will be equipped with modern facilities, including a high-capacity internet server network, 300 computers, and an uninterrupted power supply system powered by the national grid, solar energy, and standby generators.

The project, the first of its kind across all local government areas in the country, is expected to be completed within 16 to 18 weeks. The awarded companies are Odaleg Properties and Constructions Limited, Aytaam Construction Limited, Trusted Development, KODAK PRIME, VIND R D PARTNERSHIP Limited, and CORNERSTONE CONSTRUCTION ENGINEERING Limited. Vivid R D Partnership Limited will serve as project consultant for overall supervision and quality assurance.

The contractors pledged to execute the work according to required standards and within the stipulated timeframe. Teams from the local government areas and the ministry will conduct regular site inspections to ensure quality delivery. The centres are expected to create jobs and support examination bodies such as the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB), West African Examinations Council (WAEC), and National Examination Council (NECO), while also providing platforms for digital skills training across the state.