The Kebbi State Government has approved the sum of ₦282.3 million for the comprehensive renovation and upgrade of the state-owned printing press.
According to a statement signed by Ahmed Idris, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Nasir Idris, the approval was given by the Governor, Comrade Dr Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu, as part of efforts to revive and reposition the facility for optimal performance.
The statement quoted the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Alhaji Yakubu Ahmed-BK, as disclosing this during an inspection tour of the printing press in Birnin Kebbi. He was accompanied by the contractor handling the project and management staff of the ministry.
“The state government under the leadership of Governor Nasir Idris has approved the complete rehabilitation of the two sections of the printing press at a total cost of ₦282.3 million,” the statement quoted the commissioner as saying.
The statement added that the contract includes the provision and installation of critical machines aimed at making the facility fully operational. It further noted that the printing press had been out of service for an extended period and required urgent attention to meet its intended purpose.
“In view of this, the present administration decided to refurbish the press and upgrade its facilities to enable it compete favourably with other printing presses across the country,” the statement read.
It also quoted Ahmed-BK as saying the completed project will boost the state’s internally generated revenue and help reduce unemployment. He expressed satisfaction with the development and urged the contractor to adhere strictly to the terms of the agreement.
The statement added that the project is expected to be completed within three weeks, and the commissioner appealed to staff of the facility to ensure judicious use of the equipment when fully installed.
