Group asks BPP DG to prioritise collaboration for improved procurement practices

The Network for the Actualisation of Social Growth and Viable Development (NEFGAD), a public procurement advocacy group, has commended Adebowale Adedokun, the director-general (DG) of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), for his vision to improve the system.

Akingunola Omoniyi, head of the NEFGAD office, spoke in Abuja on Wednesday during a courtesy visit to Adedokun in his office.

Omoniyi said the visit was to familiarise with the new leadership of the BPP and discuss Nigerians’ aspirations and expectations concerning the agency’s operations.

He stressed the importance of engagement and collaboration to attain an improved procurement system.

“We are here to felicitate with you on your appointment and outline the public’s expectations of this organisation,” he said.

“Our last visit was during the tenure of the previous leadership, and it is crucial to revisit this agency to reinforce our advocacy for improved procurement practices that benefit all Nigerians.

“We also want to hear your vision for the agency and explore areas of collaboration.”

Responding, Adedokun said his leadership of BPP has a lot of changes to implement in line with the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

“The responsibility cannot rest on Mr. President alone; every organ of government must align with this vision,” he said.

“At BPP, we fully understand this and are committed to ensuring the president’s success at all levels by making the bureau more efficient and accountable.”

He also said his commitment is in fostering a system-based approach rather than individual interests.

“We want people to trust the system, not individuals. It’s not about knowing the director general or agency heads,” he added.

“Securing contracts shouldn’t be about who you know. It is about requisite regulatory qualifications combined with organisational competence and capability.

“Our is building a diligent system that delivers results without the need for people or organisations to know anyone in power.

“We are mindful of the fact that generations to come will judge us by what we accomplish today, and we must ensure we leave a legacy that bequeaths a better country for our children.”

Adedokun also said the bureau will also experience digital transformation while noting that his leadership will reduce procurement document processing time from several months to a maximum of three weeks, ensuring clarity and timely responses.

“Nigerians should also expect the release of procurement details as soon as decisions are made,” he said.

“This is to enable Nigerians to track projects and hold contractors accountable. Also, we want to establish a price intelligence system to combat over-invoicing.

“This is to aid our intelligence around contract pricing; with this robust system, we can benchmark prices and reject proposals outside acceptable ranges.”