Minister hails BPP for driving accountability in contract awards

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has applauded the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) for its commitment to fostering transparency and accountability in public procurement and contract awards.

Speaking during a courtesy visit by the BPP Director General, Dr Adebowale Adedokun, and his team in Abuja on Thursday, Idris praised the Bureau’s innovative measures, which align with the “Renewed Hope Agenda” of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

The Minister highlighted the previous lack of transparency in procurement processes, noting that the BPP’s efforts to demystify the process mark a significant step forward. “Procurement processes were often shrouded in mystery, but I am glad that is changing. Transparency ensures fairness, and even those who lose contracts will understand and appreciate the reasons,” he said.

Idris described the BPP’s initiative to complete the entire procurement process within 20 working days as a “game-changer” that reflects innovation and dedication to improving the system. He further emphasised that an efficient procurement framework would conserve resources, which could then be redirected towards poverty alleviation.

In addition, the Minister pledged his ministry’s support in raising public awareness about the procurement process and collaborating with the BPP on campaigns against the vandalism of public infrastructure. He also noted the ministry’s recent renaming to the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, signifying a renewed focus on public reorientation and restoring national values.

“The President’s aim is to reclaim our national values, and this will soon be symbolised through the launch of the National Values Charter,” he said.

Earlier, Dr Adebowale Adedokun outlined the Bureau’s initiatives to enhance fairness and competitiveness in public procurement. He revealed that all procurement processes within government agencies are now expected to be finalised within the first half of the year.

Dr Adedokun also announced the transition to an electronic procurement system, which will enable wider participation from local and international contractors. Furthermore, he noted that the Bureau is working to categorise and classify service providers to enhance the global competitiveness of local contractors.

To boost transparency, all ministries, departments, and agencies must now submit quarterly reports detailing contracts awarded, including contractor names, to be published on the BPP portal. The Director General also disclosed the development of new procurement guidelines for sectors such as medical equipment, food security, and vehicles to ensure standardisation.

By Odigie Ehidiamen Kelvin