The Kogi State Government has announced plans to rehabilitate nine major livestock markets across the state as part of its drive to boost agricultural productivity and strengthen the livestock value chain.
The initiative, under the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES), aims to modernize the markets and provide improved infrastructure for farmers, traders, and other key players in the livestock sector.
During a bid-closing and opening ceremony held in Lokoja, six construction firms submitted proposals for the rehabilitation contracts. The event marked the formal commencement of the procurement process, signaling the government’s commitment to transparency and due process.
Speaking at the ceremony, the State Project Coordinator of L-PRES, Dr. Olufemi Bolarin, said the rehabilitation would ensure that the markets are well-structured, secure, and equipped with modern facilities. He emphasized that the project is in line with Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s agricultural development agenda to improve food security, create jobs, and enhance rural livelihoods.
Representing the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry noted that the markets would receive essential upgrades, including holding areas, water supply systems, sanitation facilities, and improved trading spaces to promote hygienic and efficient livestock trading.
The rehabilitation is part of a World Bank-assisted L-PRES programme, designed to enhance productivity and resilience within Nigeria’s livestock sector. According to project documents, the bidding process closed on October 10, 2025, and construction is expected to last approximately 12 months once contracts are awarded.
The nine markets selected for rehabilitation span various local government areas, representing Kogi’s major livestock trading hubs. Officials say the project will not only improve market standards but also expand opportunities for farmers, traders, and meat processors across the state.
Dr. Bolarin assured bidders and the public of a transparent selection process, pledging that only qualified contractors would be engaged to deliver durable and value-driven infrastructure.
“The goal is to create safe, efficient, and economically vibrant livestock markets that will drive sustainable growth in the agricultural sector,” he said.
