By James Isaac
The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Procurement, Senator Jide Ipinsagba, has assured Nigerians that the Senate is committed to reform the country’s procurement system to align with global best practices and restore public confidence.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja, Ipinsagba, who represents Ondo North Senatorial District, emphasized that the Senate is working closely with the Bola Tinubu-led administration to enforce zero tolerance for corruption in government business.
According to him, the committee is set to unveil measures ensuring that all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) conform to the administration’s new paradigm shift, where ordinary Nigerians can bid and win contracts without political interference.
Senator Ipinsagba stated that the committee would investigate past procurement activities, particularly from 2019 to date, to address irregularities and restore public trust in the system.
“Many wrongs will be corrected. We want to make sure that only qualified persons get contract jobs they tender for. Due process must be followed, and we want the country to experience a new era of procurement that meets international standards,” he said.
He further assured that the Senate is sincere in its reforms, aligning with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu and the uncommon leadership of Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The Senate Committee, in collaboration with the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), is working to transition from traditional analog procurement methods to digital systems.
“The goal is to bring Nigeria’s procurement system up to global standards, ensuring transparency and efficiency. The committee will discourage portfolio contractors who lack the resources and expertise to execute government contracts,” he added.
Ipinsagba also emphasized that the committee will ensure that contractors undergo proper evaluation, including both commercial and technical assessments, before being awarded government contracts.
“We will ensure that contractors have the capacity, resources, and manpower to fulfill their obligations. The committee follows the Public Procurement Act of 2007 as its guiding principle,” he stated.
The senator reiterated that the committee consist of highly experienced Nigerians who have excelled in governance and business.
He concluded by reaffirming the committee’s commitment to fairness and transparency, stating:
“We want a system where you don’t need to know anybody before you can bid or win contracts”he concluded.
