FGC Kano Land Row: Pluck Global justifies concession, pledges ₦8bn infrastructure upgrade

The Pluck Global Construction Company has defended its proposed land concession arrangement at Federal Government College, FGC, Kano, describing the project as a strategic intervention aimed at upgrading the school’s infrastructure without financial burden on the Federal Government.

In a statement signed by the Managing Director of the company, Musaddiq Ado-Bala-Talle, on Monday, the firm was responding to concerns raised by the Federal Government College Kano Old Students Association, FGCKOSA, over the concession of about 33 hectares of land within the school premises.

Recall that the FGCKOSA had protested over the project, noting that the association was not carried along as a stakeholder in the college.

The firm explained that the agreement, executed in June 2024 under a Public-Private Partnership, PPP, model, followed due regulatory processes, including approvals from the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission, ICRC, and the Ministerial Projects Approval Board.

Pluck Global clarified that contrary to insinuations in some quarters, the Kano State Government is not involved in the ownership or concession of the land.

According to the company, the initiative is designed to transform the college through the provision of modern infrastructure, including a skills acquisition and entrepreneurship centre, staff quarters, a female hostel, a health centre, a sports complex, a corps members’ lodge, and a staff common room.

Other components of the project include the installation of solar power systems, expansion of the school garden, and construction of additional supporting facilities.

The company also disclosed plans for the comprehensive renovation of 54 classrooms, science laboratories, hostels, e-library, dining hall, road network, and the school’s perimeter fencing, alongside the provision of security infrastructure.

In addition, Pluck Global said it would supply vehicles, motorcycles, furniture, and instructional materials to enhance teaching and security within the institution.

It stated that the total value of the project exceeded N8 billion as of 2024, noting that the cost may have significantly increased due to prevailing economic conditions, although PPP agreements are not subject to review after approval.

Under the arrangement, the company will receive 40 per cent of the underutilised land as return on investment upon completion of the project, while the remaining 60 per cent, along with all upgraded facilities, will remain the property of the school.

The firm stressed that possession of the land would only be taken after full delivery of the agreed infrastructure within a 36-month timeline.

Pluck Global further described reports circulating in parts of the media on the project’s valuation as inaccurate, insisting they do not reflect the true worth of the investment.

The company maintained that the initiative would not undermine the legacy of FGC Kano but rather enhance it by creating a safer and more conducive learning environment for students and staff.

It also reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and openness to engagement with stakeholders, including FGCKOSA, to address any concerns surrounding the project.