Request for Expression of Interest (EOI) for Consultancy Services at Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF)
Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF)
Request for Expression of Interest (EOI) for Consultancy Services
Introduction
The Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) was established by the Nigerian Communications Act, 2007 to facilitate the achievement of national policy goals for universal service and universal access to Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in rural, un-served and under-served areas in Nigeria.
The Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) further to the implementation of the 2015 budget and in compliance with the requirements of the Public Procurement Act, 2007 hereby invites qualified and reputable firms with proven experience to express interest to undertake the following Consultancies:
| LOT NO | CONSULTANCY | DESCRIPTION OF CONSULTANCY |
| TA | Technical Auditors for USPF Projects | To assist the Universal Service Provision Secretariat (USPS) in the supervision of its various projects to ensure completion on time, on budget and on quality. |
| ET | Evaluation of Tenders | To assist the USPS evaluate the various bids it received in response to the Invitation for Proposals for 2015 capital projects. |
| SS | Implementation of the USPF Strategic Management Plan | To carry out Consultancy Services for the Provision of Support Services for the USPF SMP. |
| FM | Fund Manager | To act as Fund Managers for the USPS. |
(2) Relevant Telecommunications Experience
The proponents shall be required to demonstrate the following competencies:
(a) A general understanding of telecommunications networks.
(b) Ability in terms of manpower and expertise to work with various entities (USPF, Vendors, Operators, Community leaders etc.).
(c) An understanding of the telecommunications terrain in rural areas of Nigeria.
(d) An understanding of the what the USPF projects entails.
(e) Experience with technical works, including ICT, hardware/software development/deployment and proof of previous project experience.
(f) Relevant technical and business deployment potential with reference to similar projects done.
(g) Strong client orientation, pro-active relationship management skills, good track record in technical capacity building and client relationship management, especially in Nigeria.
(h) Any other relevant information that would support your company’s proposal.
(3) Eligibility General
Interested Firms must submit the following documents:
(a) Evidence of incorporation with Corporate Affairs Commission. Companies must enclose certificate of incorporation and form C07.
(b) Memorandum and Articles of Association of their Company, which must show that the Company has ICT related activities as part of its objectives.
(c) Three year Tax Clearance Certificates (2012, 2013 and 2014).
(d) Evidence of Value Added Tax (VAT) registration certificate and past remittances.
(e) Audited accounts for the last year 2014.
(f) Verifiable evidence of financial capacity to execute the project.
(g) Evidence of proper understanding of telecommunications solutions for rural areas.
(h) Evidence of similar works.
(i) Company profile and organizational structure, including names and resume of key personnel and technical staff with addresses and phone numbers.
(j) Detail evidence of compliance with Pension Act, 2004 including evidence of remittances and ITF contribution,
(k) Evidence of compliance with the Employee’s Compensation Act which
stipulates a remittance of 1 % of the total annual emolument of workers to NSITF.
(l) Evidence of registration on the National Database of Contractors, Consultants and Service providers. Bidders are requested to submit an Interim Registration Report as the evidence of compliance with this requirement.
(m) A sworn affidavit that the firm is not bankrupt, in receivership or under liquidation or involved in any litigation which can potentially affect the company’s ability to conclusively participate in this engagement.
(4) Specific Conditions
In addition to the general eligibility the prospective Consultants shall also be required to demonstrate the following minimum competencies:
(a) Fund Managers
(a) Membership of a relevant Professional body with a valid license to practice in Nigeria.
(b) Ability to comply with the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) of any of the following:
(i) International Accounting Standards (IAS)
(ii) Standing Interpretations Committee (SIC)
(iii) Statement of Accounting Standards (SAS)
(iv) All relevant publications of the Nigerian Accounting Standards Board (NASB)
(v) Auditing Standards Committee for the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) or any other relevant body
(c) Track record of ability to manage public sector funds efficiently for not less than 5 years.
(d) The firm must show evidence of a sound financial position for the last 5 years
(e) The ideal Fund Manager must be able to demonstrate success in managing different classes of assets.
(b) Support Services for Implementation of the USPF Strategic Management Plan
(a) Demonstrate immense understanding of the USPF’ Strategic Management Plan 2013 -2017.
(b) A good understanding of the Nigerian telecommunications industry and Universal Access and Universal Service Provision.
(c) Experience in the development of a Strategic Management Plan especially in the ICT industry.
(d) Strong client orientation, pro-active relationship management skills, good track record in technical capacity building and client relationship management, especially in Nigeria.
(e) Experience with Programme and Project Management for sustainable development and proof of previous project experience.
(f) Demonstrate ability in terms of manpower and expertise to work with various entities (ICT Stakeholders).
(g) Any other relevant information that would support your company’s proposal.
(5) Submission of Documents
The Expression of Interest (EOI) should be submitted in a sealed envelope clearly marked USPF EOI – LOT NO – at the top right corner with name of the company clearly printed on the reverse side of the envelope and must be hand delivered not later than 3.00 p.m. Thursday, August 27, 2015 to the following address:
The Secretary
Universal Service Provision Fund USPF
Secretariat 9th Floor
Nigerian Communications Commission
Plot 423 Aguiyilronsi Street, Maitama – Abuja
Please Note That:
(a) Submissions after the date and time specified above will be rejected.
(b) This advertisement is NOT an invitation to tender as full tendering procedures will be applied ONLY to firms that meet the prescribed specifications above.
(c) This publication is for information only, and not to be construed as a commitment or obligation on the part of the Management of USPF.
(d) USPF is not obliged to shortlist any firm and reserves the right to annul the process at any time without liabilities on its part or proffering any reasons for the annulment.
(e) All costs incurred by interested parties in response to this advert or enquiries shall be borne by the firms and not the USPF.
All further enquiries regarding this advertisement should be directed by email to: uspfprocurement@/ncc.gov.ng
Signed:
Secretary, Universal Service Provision Fund
Nigerian Communications Commission Head Office, 9th Floor, Plot 423, Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama District, Abuja, FCT. www.uspf.gov.ng
