In a bid to curb traffic gridlock across the state, no fewer than seven contracting companies have indicated interest to bid for construction and dualisation of two Federal roads and split diamond interchange at the Garin-Alimi roundabout Ilorin, Kwara state capital.

The two projects are dualisation of Kulende – OKe-Ose Road and also the dualisation of Ajase-ipo road starting from Michael Imodu to end at Ganmo community respectively.

The companies are CGC Nigeria Limited, Levant Construction Ltd, Kopek Construction, Borini Prono and Co. Nigeria Ltd. Others are RCC, Duravil Engineering Limited, and Chelfon Engineering and Construction Ltd.

The event which took place at Kwara State Ministry of Works on Wednesday had various stakeholders from both state and Federal Ministry of Works, private organisations and professional associations in attendance.

Speaking during the opening of the bids box by the State Commissioner of Works, Alhaji Aro Yahaya said: "Even though the projects are Federal roads, Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed is desirous of decongesting the chaotic traffic situation within the state capital.

"Hence, this led to the approval to invite reputable contracting firms to bid for the projects in spite of the dwindling financial allocation to the state. He stressed that the three projects are among other new roads projects that would be embarked on in the nearest future by the government.

The Commissioner however, urged successful contractors to live up to expectation by complying with the programme of works with design specification. He said "the ministry shall not relent in pushing for prompt release of fund and engineers to ensure value for money on the funded projects.