New Vision, New Era: BPP DG Pledges Radical Overhaul of Procurement Practices

By Achimi muktar

The Director-General of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), Adebowale Adedokun, is charting a bold new course to transform Nigeria’s procurement system, promising efficiency, transparency, and collaboration as cornerstones of his leadership.

This vision was spotlighted on Wednesday during a courtesy visit by the Network for the Actualisation of Social Growth and Viable Development (NEFGAD), a public procurement advocacy group, to Adedokun’s office in Abuja. The group, represented by its head, Akingunola Omoniyi, commended the DG for his proactive approach and emphasized the critical need for synergy to achieve improved procurement outcomes.

“We’re here to congratulate you on your appointment and outline Nigerians’ expectations from the BPP,” Omoniyi stated. “Our advocacy is focused on advancing procurement practices that serve the nation equitably, and we believe collaboration is key to achieving this.”

Adedokun, in his response, outlined a sweeping reform agenda tied to President Bola Tinubu’s "Renewed Hope" mandate. "The responsibility for change doesn’t rest on the President alone. Every government agency, including BPP, must align with this vision," he remarked.

Breaking Barriers: A System-Based Approach

Adedokun emphasized the importance of institutional integrity over personal connections in the procurement process.

“Trust should be placed in the system, not in individuals. It’s not about knowing the DG or agency heads but meeting regulatory qualifications and demonstrating competence. We are building a legacy where fairness and accountability define our operations,” he declared.

Digital Transformation and Transparency

In a bold move to tackle inefficiency, Adedokun announced plans to reduce procurement document processing time from months to a maximum of three weeks. Additionally, procurement decisions will now be made public promptly to enable Nigerians to track projects and hold contractors accountable.

He also revealed plans to implement a price intelligence system to combat over-invoicing, ensuring a standardized approach to contract pricing. “This system will benchmark acceptable price ranges, eliminating inflated proposals and driving value for money,” he explained.

A Legacy for Future Generations

Adedokun’s reforms are deeply rooted in creating a sustainable system for future generations. "We are mindful that history will judge us by our actions today. Our goal is to leave behind a procurement system that guarantees a better Nigeria for our children," he stated.

The NEFGAD leadership expressed optimism about the DG’s vision, pledging continued advocacy and support to realize a procurement system that truly serves Nigerians. As Adedokun's reforms take shape, stakeholders are watching closely, hoping this new leadership delivers on its promises.