In recent years, Kwara State infrastructure has seen massive transformation. Roads have been built and upgraded, the power situation has greatly improved and new facilities such as Ilorin International Airport have been constructed. However, the state still has a long way to go to arrive at where it wants to be and there are many business and investment opportunities in infrastructure where foreign and local companies can partner with the state. Business opportunities exist in various projects that would enhance the economic development of the state and improve the wellbeing of the population. These include road construction, water supply, power generation and distribution, and water management.

Power generation and distribution
Power-sector reform is part of former president Umaru Yar'Adua's seven point agenda and the country is working had to improve the current situation. Great strives have been made to enhance power generation and distribution in Kwara State. The recent completion of the Ganmo substation and the rural electrification programme bear witness to this. The state can, however, not rest on its laurels and continued investment in the sector is necessary. Growing industrial activity is sure to place further pressure in the electricity provision in the future.

The state is considering the establishment of an independent power project to strengthen power supply. Given the large costs involved in constructing a 600-kilometer gas pipeline, the state is examining coal-fire options. There are good deposits in the region and the government has been able to negotiate access rights. Discussions are currently under way with a company in South Africa as a potential partner in such a project.

The administration is also planning to spend about 1.2billion on a community based electricity provision scheme whereby private contractors will supply electricity so that small-scale industries can benefit. Investigations into alternative or clean energy are in progress and the sub sector offers potential opportunities to foreign and local investors. New solar-powered street lights were recently installed on some of Ilorin’s major roads.  

Transport and logistics infrastructure
One of the state government's most important ongoing projects is to establish Kwara State as a logistics and cargo hub. The construction of the cargo terminal at the Ilorin International Airport and the proposed truck terminal are central to the vision.

Truck Terminal
The state wants to capitalize on its location in the center of Nigeria and as a gateway to the north and the south of the country. Investors are currently sought to establish a truck terminal a few kilometers from the airport. An area of 90 hectares has been acquired and the architectural, structural and mechanical engineering designs have been completed. The facility will have space for 1000 trucks, a workshop, a truck wash, two petrol stations and a motel, and will also feature an electronic tractor system. In short, it will cater for all the needs of transport and logistics companies. In addition, there are plans on the table to integrate the terminal with a bus depot for interstate buses coming in Ilorin. Surveys show that about 3000 trucks pass along the road next to the proposed truck terminal every day. The facility will also complement the cargo terminal at Ilorin International Airport. With the anticipated growth of Kwara State’s agriculture and manufacturing sectors, there will be a large demand for a transport and a facility such as truck terminal. 

Road Construction
An unprecedented number of roads have been built in Kwara State and the state government will continue with this initiative until every road in the state is of high standard and traffic congestion is at acceptable levels. There are business opportunities for reputable contractors to assist the state government with these projects.
The state recently partnered with Setraco Nigeria, a member of the Setraco International Holding group of companies, for the construction of a new flyover in Ilorin.

Investment Opportunities in Infrastructure
Truck Terminal
The state government is looking to partner with private investors to construct and operate a truck terminal near Ilorin International Airport. It plans to establish a special purpose vehicle which in turn will lease out different facilities at the truck terminal. This way any private company willing to invest will be able to earn a good return on investment.

Power generation and distribution
Investors in the energy sector have the opportunity to collaborate with the state government in a various power generation and distribution projects. It is of particular importance to the administration to improve electricity supply in the rural areas of the state in order to boost economic activity. Alternative power provision is also an area that holds considerable potentials in Kwara State.

For more information, Contact 
Fela Ibidapo, Special Assistant to the Executive Governor on Investment.
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TradeInvestNigeria:
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