The Niger State Government has signed an agreement with Duduwa Consult Limited for the construction of a shopping complex worth N1.3 billion in Suleja.
The shopping complex which would have 240 shops would be implemented under a Public, Private Partnership (PPP) agreement and will address multiple targets of the present administration in improving the state’s economy.
Speaking during the signing of the agreement in Suleja, the Niger State Commissioner of Investment, Commerce, and Industry, Hajiya Ramatu Yaradua said that the government approved the project after due diligence with a major consideration on the viability of the project.
The Commissioner who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mallam Yahaya Babawachiko expressed optimism that the project would address unemployment and improve the internally generated revenue of the local government and the state.
“This project is in tandem with the development agenda of the present administration to create jobs for our teeming youth and women while also improving the internally generated revenue of the state government,” she said.
On the agreement between the three parties, the commissioner said “Through the PPP agreement, the investor will build, operate and later on, transfer the project to the local government while we facilitated the development of the blueprint for the project, the local government council provided the land and will after some years, take ownership of the project.”
The Emir of Suleja, Mallam Auwal Ibrahim tasked the investors to be diligent in the discharge of their duties.
The Chairman of Duduwa Consult LTD, Abubakar Makama said that the project would boost the opportunities for businesses to thrive in the area.
He said that the proximity of Suleja to Abuja holds numerous potentials for economic growth, hence the need for the right structures and facilities.
“To be able to attract these benefits, the facilities and infrastructures in and around Suleja have to be redeveloped and upgraded in tune with the anticipated benefits.
“I hereby assure you that we shall bring our knowledge, experience, and financial prowess to bear in the execution of this project and timely too,” he said.
The contractor will be given 25 years to recoup his investments before ownership of the property would be given to Suleja local government council.