Taraba Opens Bids for Livestock Market Rehabilitation

Taraba State has taken a decisive step toward strengthening its agricultural sector with the launch of a transparent bidding process for the construction and rehabilitation of key livestock infrastructure across the state.

Source: thewhistler.ng

The ceremony, held at the L-Pres State Coordination Office in Jalingo, signaled the start of procurement for the rehabilitation of nine livestock markets, five slaughter slabs, and the construction of loading ramps. The initiative is expected to modernize the state’s livestock value chain and improve conditions for farmers, pastoralists, and traders.

Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Professor Nicholas Oliver Namessan, described the livestock sector as central to food security, job creation, and wealth generation. Represented by the Director of Livestock Services, Daudu A. Mbaamo, he emphasized that improved facilities will raise hygiene standards, safeguard animal health, and boost state revenue. “Agriculture remains the backbone of our state economy, and livestock production plays a key role in sustaining livelihoods. Yet inadequate infrastructure has long held our farmers back,” he said.

Professor Namessan praised Governor Agbu Kefas’s administration for its vision of transforming agriculture into a sustainable economic driver, adding that the public bid opening reflected the government’s commitment to transparency and due process. “By opening these bids publicly, we ensure fairness, value for money, and healthy competition. Every qualified contractor will be given equal opportunity, and selection will be strictly merit-based,” he assured.

Contractors were urged to uphold professionalism and integrity during both the bidding and execution phases. Participants at the ceremony expressed optimism, noting that the transparent process would help guarantee fair evaluation and quality project delivery.

L-Pres State Coordinator, Hananiah Albert, also reaffirmed the commitment of his office to objectivity in the evaluation process, stressing that only competence and credibility would guide final decisions.

Once completed, the project is expected to transform livestock trade infrastructure, enhance economic growth, and raise standards across Taraba’s agricultural sector, further positioning the state as a hub for livestock production and trade.