REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST FROM FEDERAL MINISTRY OF INDUSTRY, TRADE AND INVESTMENT

FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA

FEDERAL MINISTRY OF INDUSTRY, TRADE AND INVESTMENT (FMITI)

GROWTH AND EMPLOYMENT (GEM) PROJECT

CREDIT NO. 48820-NG

PACKAGE NUMBER: GEM/CS/CQ/2017/167.

 REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST

(CONSULTANCY SERVICES – FIRMS SELECTION)

ASSIGNMENT TITLE: ENGAGEMENT OF A COMMUNICATION FIRM FOR GROWTH AND EMPLOYMENT PROJECT

The Government of Nigeria has emphasized the importance of diversifying the economy, supporting sectors that have potential for growth and creating increased massive employment opportunities. In line with this commitment, the Government has sought the World Bank’s partnership to help Nigeria support Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) operating in different high potential sectors throughout the country. This supports is being implemented under the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment (FMITI) and operationalized in the Growth and Employment (GEM) Project.

 The GEM Project Development Objectives is to increase growth and employment in participating firms in Nigeria. The project became effective in July 2013, and will close in September 2018. The project focuses on manufacturing and service sectors, specifically supporting ICT, entertainment, tourism and hospitality, light manufacturing and construction, Project support addresses cross cutting sector issues, assistance to specific clusters, and more support to firms channeled through a platform – called the Business Innovation and Growth (BIG) Platform – Providing various trainings, technical assistance and grant schemes.

 The FMITI has several initiatives funded by GEM Project, which requires strategic harmonization of achievements, to showcase and sensitize the public and interested investors on economic improvements and investment opportunities in Nigeria. It is with this intent that the GEM Project is seeking for the Consultancy Services of a Communications firm, to collaborate with GEM, National Investment Promotion Council (NIPC) and the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) to harmonize information from these groups, and eventual dissemination to the public.

The Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment through the Growth and Employment (GEM) Project, now invites eligible firms (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the services. The shortlisting criteria are:

1. Documentary evidence of successful communications, branding and marketing experience in Nigeria.
2. Verifiable evidence of proven track record of marketing to the grassroots in Nigeria.
3. Experience working in marketing MSME and SMEs. Strong demonstrated expertise using social media for effective marketing campaigns.
4. Competence in sales, marketing and public relations techniques and methodologies.
5. Record of success working for clients that include both public and private sector organizations with requirements like those described in the terms and reference.
6. Evidence of track record in capacity building and ability to influence others to action.
7. Excellent verbal and written communication skills and demonstrated experience working with a variety of stakeholders.
8. Evidence of fluency in English, Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba and other Nigerian Languages a plus for effective nationwide marketing campaigns.

 Only shortlisted Consultants will be invited to respond to a Request for Proposal (“RfP”). The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to paragraph 1.9 of the World Bank’s Guidelines: Selection and Employment of Consultants under IBRD and IDA Credits & Grants by World Bank Borrowers, May 2011, revised in July 2014 (“Consultants Guidelines”) setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest. Consultants may associate with other firms in the form of a Joint Venture or Sub-Consultancy to enhance their qualifications.

 A Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Consultant Qualification (CQ) Selection method set out in the Consultant Guidelines.

 Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours, i.e. 0900 to 1700hours.

 Expression of Interest must be delivered in a written form to the address below (in person (Hard copy), or by mail) and preferably by e-mail by Thursday December 7, 2017.

 Project Implementation Unit, Growth and Employment (GEM) Project Office

Attn.: Mr. Ugo Ikemba – Project Coordinator

GEM PIU Office

Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment

Block C, Old Secretariat

Garki Area 1, Abuja

Tel: +234 806 041 7080