Abuja: Director-General of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), Dr. Adebowale Adedokun, has directed federal government agencies to strictly comply with public procurement regulations, warning that due process, transparency and accountability are critical to safeguarding public funds and delivering quality services to Nigerians.
Delivering a presentation at a retreat organised by the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) in Abuja, Adedokun stressed that adherence to procurement procedures remains essential for achieving value for money and strengthening public trust in government institutions.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday by the BPP’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Zira Nagga, the BPP chief described procurement as a key instrument of good governance and effective service delivery.
“Procurement connects citizens with the government through the delivery of value and end-user satisfaction,” Adedokun said.
He emphasized that every procurement process must begin with a proper needs assessment and be supported by adequate planning and approved budgetary provisions.
The BPP boss also underscored the importance of complying with approved procurement thresholds and procedures designed to promote competition, fairness and the public interest.
He warns against bid rigging, conflicts of interest and unauthorized contract variations, insisting that “transparency is non-negotiable.”
Adedokun clarified the responsibilities of approving authorities, stressing the need for officers to understand the chain of authority and compliance obligations governing procurement activities.
He further warned against common procurement infractions, including bid rigging, conflicts of interest and unauthorized contract variations.
According to him, approvals for contract variations are domiciled with the BPP except in clearly defined exceptional circumstances.
Reiterating the bureau’s commitment to transparency, Adedokun directed that all contract awards be published on both the websites of the respective agencies and the BPP.
He also instructed agencies to make their monthly and quarterly procurement activity reports publicly available on their websites and on the bureau’s portal.
The statement noted that the presentation formed part of efforts to strengthen procurement capacity within the NHIA and equip its officers with the knowledge required to uphold established standards and regulatory requirements.
It added that the retreat highlighted the role of transparency, accountability and efficiency in public procurement as vital pillars of good governance, while promoting fairness, compliance and value for money in the management of public resources.