David Igbodo, Chairman, Delta State Public Procurement Council, flanked by other members during a press conference recently.
Monday Iyke
The Delta State Public Procurement Council has pledged to establish a procurement system that is both efficient and exemplary, setting a standard for other states to follow.
This commitment was announced by the Chairman of the Council, David Igbodo, during a press briefing held after the council’s inaugural meeting at the Ministry of Economic Planning in Asaba.
Mr. Igbodo highlighted that the council’s core mandate is to align all procurement activities with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s M.O.R.E. agenda. This agenda prioritizes transparency, accountability, and achieving value for money in governance.
He emphasized the council’s role in regulating procurement processes across the state, ensuring that public resources are managed effectively and efficiently.
These efforts resonate with global best practices outlined in the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) Model Law on Public Procurement, which advocates for transparency and accountability in public procurement systems.
The council’s inaugural meeting resulted in key decisions aimed at transforming the state’s procurement landscape.
These include strengthening the legal and institutional framework for procurement, enforcing compliance with procurement laws and guidelines, and building the capacity of stakeholders and procurement officers.
Additionally, the council plans to leverage technology to enhance transparency, streamline processes, and enable real-time monitoring of procurement activities.
These initiatives align with Nigeria’s Public Procurement Act (2007), which underscores efficiency, competition, and transparency in public procurement.
The Delta State Public Procurement Law, which forms the foundation of the council’s operations, seeks to promote accountability and ensure value for money.
Mr. Igbodo underscored the importance of gathering feedback from stakeholders and the public to improve the system continually. This participatory approach ensures the procurement framework remains inclusive, fair, and responsive to the needs of all.
He noted that the council was inaugurated by Governor Oborevwori on December 4, 2024, with its first meeting held on January 23, 2025.
The council comprises both statutory and non-statutory members, each bringing expertise and perspectives essential for its success.
The members are, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Ekemejero Ohwovoriole, SAN, Commissioner for Finance, Sir Fidelis Tilije, Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr. Sonny Ekedayen, Chief Economic Advisor to the Governor, Dr. Barry Gbe.
Others are, Mr. Edwin Abraka, Secretary of the Council and Deputy Director-General of the Delta State Public Procurement Commission; Mr. Daniel Venture, representing non-governmental organizations (NGOs); and Mr. Fynecountry Goodluck, representing professional bodies.
The Council is expected to transform the state’s procurement system, leveraging technology, enforcing robust legal frameworks, and building capacity to set a new benchmark for procurement practices in Nigeria.
