By Muhammad B. Muhammad
Following the recent call for Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from qualified consultants, the Adamawa State Universal Basic Education Board (ADSUBEB) has formally opened bids for the engagement of consultancy services under the 2022, 2023, and 2024 Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC)/SUBEB matching grant initiative.
At the official bid opening ceremony held on Tuesday in Yola, ADSUBEB reaffirmed its commitment to a transparent and accountable procurement process.
Representing the Executive Chairman, Dr. Murtala Babayi, the Board’s Permanent Member II, Dr. Aliyu Sa’ad, welcomed participating firms and expressed appreciation for their interest and efforts.
Dr. Babayi emphasized the importance of delivering high-quality education infrastructure across the state, urging successful consultants to strictly adhere to project specifications and timelines.
He also acknowledged the vital support of Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, whose administration facilitated the timely release of counterpart funding required for the UBEC matching grants.
“We are grateful to His Excellency for his steadfast investment in the future of our children. This bid opening is a testament to his unwavering commitment to basic education,” the Chairman noted.
In her remarks, the Director of Procurement, Mrs. Rahila Stephen Gyandi, reiterated the board’s adherence to the Public Procurement Act, 2007.
She explained that the publication of the EOI in national newspapers and the transparency of the bid opening aligned with statutory requirements, particularly Section 44 of the Act.
“This process is not only compliant with procurement laws but also reflects our dedication to openness and due process. Today, May 13, marks the deadline for submission and the formal commencement of the procurement process,” Mrs. Gyandi stated.
She confirmed that ten consulting firms submitted bids and assured all applicants of a fair evaluation process.
Oversight bodies and key stakeholders present at the event lauded the transparency of the exercise. Mr. Benjamin of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) praised the integrity of the process and urged selected consultants to uphold their responsibilities with diligence and integrity.
Similarly, Mr. Samuel Thomas Tihze, representing UBEC, commended ADSUBEB for its adherence to best practices. He cautioned that UBEC would closely monitor project execution and would not hesitate to sanction any firm that failed to meet contractual standards.
Civil Society representative, Yakubu Illiya, encouraged consultants to embrace a sense of duty and patriotism, reminding them that the success of these projects directly affects the educational future of children in the state.
Consultants present, including Hamman Adamawa Ibrahim, Timothy Nwokocha, and Musa Danjuma Sale, expressed satisfaction with the process, describing it as open, fair, and professional.
The consultancy assignment, supported by the UBEC/SUBEB matching grant, covers key components such as pre- and post-contract project monitoring, condition surveys, site assessments, design production, risk identification, and compliance checks.
The projects themselves involve the construction and rehabilitation of classroom blocks, installation of perimeter fencing, and provision of essential learning materials and furniture across primary and junior secondary schools in Adamawa State.
This initiative further strengthens the state’s commitment to creating a safe, functional, and conducive learning environment for every child.
Sahel Reporters News
