Adebowale Adedokun, the director-general of the Bureau of Public Procurement, has urged procurement officers to prioritise value for money, transparency and accountability to improve service delivery.
Adedokun made the call at the opening of the second batch of the Mandatory Continuous Public Procurement Capacity Development Training Programme, on Monday in Port Harcourt.
Mr Adedokun said that the programme would boost the performance of procurement officers. He said that the training was organised to equip officers with procurement principles, processes, regulations and ethics in line with the Public Procurement Act 2007.
The BPP chief described public procurement as a strategic instrument for national development, economic growth and effective implementation of government policies. Mr Adedokun said that sound procurement decisions would ensure that funds allocated to hospitals, schools, roads, agriculture and security translated into quality services.
He urged the participants to distinguish between the lowest bid and the best evaluated offer, correct wrong practices, and pursue further professional development beyond obtaining training certificates.
Mr Adedokun said that the bureau would monitor their performance after the training to ensure that lessons learnt translated into improved workplace practices.
Nelson Ojougboh, the coordinator of training and programmes, said that participants were selected through an advertised and rigorous process.
Mr Ojougboh said the programme prioritised junior officers to establish sound procurement practices early in their careers and strengthen professional capacity within government institutions.
Mr Ojougboh described the participants as cooperative and compliant, adding that certification would depend on assessment performance rather than attendance alone. He noted that the resource persons were screened by the bureau for competence and experience, and that participants could continue to seek professional guidance after completing the programme.
Hamza Abdullahi, the procurement officer of the Consumer Protection Tribunal, Abuja, said that the training would deepen his understanding of procurement processes and improve his competence in handling contract awards.
Mr Abdullahi commended the federal government for creating opportunities for procurement officers to network, exchange ideas and promote effective management of public funds.
(NAN)