The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has given its approval for the concession of the Central Workshop in Ijora, Lagos State, aimed at its rehabilitation and optimal operation. The concession will operate under the regulatory guidance of the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC).
In a statement signed by Manji Yarling, ICRC’s Head of Media and Publicity in Abuja, on Thursday, it was revealed that this is the first Public Private Partnership (PPP) project to receive approval under the new administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The concession, which follows the Rehabilitate-Operate-Maintain-Transfer PPP model, is intended to upgrade the central workshop to ensure it fulfils its functions. The Federal Ministry of Works acts as the grantor for this project.
Beta Transport Nigeria Limited submitted the unsolicited project, Privately Initiated Infrastructure Proposals (PIIP), and it is expected to generate N28.1 billion within a 20-year concession period.
The Central Workshop in Ijora, Lagos, historically served as an integral part of the defunct Public Works Department (PWD), which was responsible for building and maintaining government buildings, property, roads, rail tracks, bridges, harbours, and aerodromes during the colonial era. The workshop’s functions encompassed the maintenance of vehicles, sewage treatment plants, and water supply equipment, as well as providing technical advice to other government departments.
However, the workshop is presently not operating at its optimal capacity, prompting the need for private-sector involvement.
With FEC’s approval, the concessionaire will be responsible for implementing productive and professional work within the workshop, adhering to standard guidelines and operating procedures through the provision of modern equipment. The workshop is expected to run at the highest standard of operational excellence, restoring its reputation for engineering productivity and excellence.
The activities of BETA will complement the mandate of the Engineering Services Department of the Federal Ministry of Works, involving the fabrication of mechanical tools, products, poles, and foundry items, among others.
Additionally, the rehabilitation of the workshop will enable the repair of many run-down trucks and vehicles, reducing the congestion of roads in the area.
