The Director-General of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), Adebowale Adedokun, has said the bureau is committed to strengthening the procurement system in the country.

Mr Adedokun said this at the Procurement Clinic Training on the “Principles of Procurement Planning, Records Keeping and E-Advertisement” for federal ministries, departments and agencies in Abuja on Tuesday.

He said that the BPP would be directly involved, henceforth, in the process of monitoring the procurement process.

He described public procurement as a technical function and a strategic enabler of national development.

He stated, “By ensuring transparency and accountability in the management of public resources, it will directly contribute to economic growth, social equity, and sustainable development. This clinic has been specifically designed to empower procurement officers with the skills and knowledge necessary to carry out their duties effectively, specifically on the principles of procurement planning and record keeping.

“They will also utilise the Nigeria Open Contracting Portal (NOCOPO) and e-advertisement. It is not just a training session but a platform for learning and collaboration for reform. We have carefully selected the topics to be covered in this programme because of their importance in entrenching the fundamental principles of public procurement.’’

Mr Adedokun said that the principles aimed at ensuring that procurement activities were strategically aligned with organisational goals and, by extension, President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

He noted, “Principles of procurement records emphasise the need for proper documentation as a foundation for transparency and accountability in the public procurement process. Principles of advertisement and use of the e-advertisement module are other innovations from the bureau.

“The aim is to leverage technology to enhance competition, transparency and access to public procurement opportunities for the business communities and the entire citizens. It will enable Nigerians to reap the dividends of good governance.” 

The DG added that the use of NOCOPO was a critical tool for uploading procurement information and fostering transparency in public procurement.

“As procurement officers, you play a pivotal role in this process. Your work ensures that public funds are utilised efficiently to deliver impactful services to citizens,” he said.

Mr Adedokun commended the participants and their determination to work together toward achieving excellence in public procurement in the country. 

(NAN)