Information Minister Applauds BPP’s Transparency Reforms in Public Procurement
Princess-Ekwi Ajide
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has commended the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) for its groundbreaking reforms aimed at promoting transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s procurement processes.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by BPP’s Director General, Dr. Adebowale Adedokun, and his team in Abuja, Idris emphasised the importance of openness in awarding government contracts under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Procurement and contract awards will no longer be shrouded in secrecy. If company ‘A’ gets a contract, let everyone know the reasons. This level of transparency fosters trust,” the Minister stated.
Idris lauded the BPP’s initiative to complete procurement processes within 20 working days, calling it a game-changer.
He expressed confidence that this efficiency would conserve resources for critical national needs like poverty alleviation.
Idris highlighted a shift in government focus, saying that the renaming of his ministry to the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, reflects a renewed emphasis on public reorientation and the reclamation of national values.
He revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will soon launch a National Values Charter.
BPP’s Director General, Dr. Adebowale Adedokun, on his part, detailed the BPP’s transition to an electronic procurement system, enabling both local and international contractors to bid competitively.
He also announced new guidelines for procurement in sectors like health, food security, and transportation, alongside quarterly reporting requirements to enhance transparency.
The Minister pledged to collaborate with BPP to raise awareness about these reforms and champion efforts against vandalism of public infrastructure, marking a new era of accountability in public procurement.
