Nigeria’s Public Procurement Act (2007) Review: The imperative of professional expertise
By Dr Salisu Uba, FCIPS
The Federal Government’s recent initiative to review and refine the 2007 Public Procurement Act is a significant step towards optimizing public spending and fortifying economic efficiency. This endeavour, spearheaded by a committee led by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s quest for enhanced transparency, accountability, and responsiveness in procurement practices.
Amidst the constellation of stakeholders enlisted in this laudable undertaking, the conspicuous absence of representation from the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) Nigeria and other domestic procurement-related bodies raises pertinent questions about the breadth of expertise and comprehensive insight into contemporary procurement standards within the country.
The involvement of CIPS Nigeria and analogous local bodies bears paramount significance. It is imperative to recognize that these entities serve as bastions of professional knowledge, embodying a wealth of experience in global best practices in procurement and supply chain management. Their inclusion in the committee would infuse the discourse with nuanced perspectives, aligning the proposed amendments not only with global benchmarks but also with the unique fabric of Nigeria’s socio-economic landscape.
Professionalism in procurement transcends mere technical expertise; it encapsulates a commitment to upholding ethical standards, ensuring transparency, and driving value for money across procurement processes. The infusion of such professionalism into the review of the Public Procurement Act is fundamental. It is the bedrock upon which the trust of citizens and investors in the procurement ecosystem is built.
Highlighting the importance of professionalism in this review process signifies a resolute dedication to promoting best practices. Leveraging the expertise of bodies like CIPS Nigeria and local procurement organizations will not only consolidate the legal framework but also imbue it with a pragmatic touch rooted in real-world applications.
Furthermore, the committee’s scope should extend beyond the confines of governmental offices. It is crucial to cast a wider net, seeking insights from outstanding Nigerian professionals who have excelled in the procurement and supply chain domain globally. Drawing from their experiences and achievements would inject the committee’s deliberations with a potent dose of practicality and innovation.
The call to look outward and tap into the reservoirs of Nigerian expertise scattered across the globe is not just a strategic imperative but a visionary approach. Nigeria boasts a diaspora of procurement and supply chain professionals who have garnered commendations and achievements in various sectors globally. Harnessing their knowledge and insights would foster a holistic and comprehensive review process.
Amidst these aspirations for a comprehensive review, one cannot disregard the urgency for swift action. The one-month timeline stipulated for the committee demands focused and efficient collaboration. However, the pursuit of expediency should not overshadow the importance of thoroughness and inclusivity in gathering diverse perspectives to fortify the amendments.
As the committee embarks on this crucial task, the overarching objective should be to nurture a procurement landscape that not only meets contemporary economic realities but also paves the way for sustainable growth, resilience, and equitable access to opportunities for all Nigerians.
In conclusion, the successful review and subsequent amendments to the Public Procurement Act stand as a beacon of progress for Nigeria’s economic transformation. The incorporation of professional expertise from esteemed bodies like CIPS Nigeria and the inclusion of outstanding Nigerian professionals from around the world will serve as catalysts in shaping a procurement ecosystem that is robust, transparent, and aligned with global best practices.
The future of Nigeria’s procurement landscape hinges on the committee’s commitment to professionalism, inclusivity, and forward-thinking strategies that encapsulate the diversity and dynamism of the nation’s procurement sphere.
Salisu is a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) and a member of the CIPS Education Committee in the UK. He is the founder and CEO of NarQuest Limited – a supply chain technology company based in Glasgow, UK.