The Minister of Information and National Orientation, on Thursday, praised the Bureau of Public Procurement for its efforts in enhancing transparency and accountability in the procurement and contract award processes. During a meeting with the Director General of the BPP and senior management, it was noted that the agency’s initiatives have brought about increased transparency in what was previously seen as opaque procedures.
The Minister lauded the Bureau’s commitment to openness and fairness in public procurement, emphasizing the importance of transparency in the awarding of contracts. He also commended the introduction of a new initiative to expedite procurement processes within 20 working days, highlighting its potential to conserve resources and redirect savings to poverty alleviation programs.
Furthermore, the Minister expressed support for initiatives aimed at educating the public on procurement procedures and preventing the vandalism of public infrastructure. He announced the renaming of the ministry to the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, underscoring a renewed focus on reorientation and national values.
The Director General of the BPP outlined various measures being implemented to improve fairness and competitiveness in contract awards, including the requirement for procurement processes to be completed within the first half of the year. The Bureau’s transition to an electronic procurement system was also highlighted as a way to enhance participation from contractors locally and internationally, promoting fairness, competition, and accessibility.
Additionally, new procurement guidelines have been introduced to streamline the acquisition processes for medical equipment, food security supplies, and vehicles. The Director General reaffirmed the Bureau’s dedication to creating a transparent and globally competitive procurement environment, empowering local contractors to enhance their capacity and compete on a global scale.