The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to complying with the Public Procurement Act in the execution of projects across the Niger Delta.
Ogbuku made the pledge during a capacity-building workshop on public procurement held for the commission’s executive management and directors in Port Harcourt.
He explained that the training was organised to deepen the understanding of procurement procedures among management staff and ensure strict compliance with established regulations.
According to Ogbuku, the NDDC has digitised its contract award letters to curb the circulation of fraudulent documents, noting that fake award letters had previously created legal challenges for some directors and contractors.
He said the commission’s adoption of an e-procurement system is aimed at reducing corruption, improving transparency and strengthening accountability in its procurement processes.
The NDDC boss expressed confidence that digital procurement would minimise human errors, eliminate unnecessary manual procedures and promote more efficient project implementation.
He stressed that the commission must continue to comply with government policies and procurement regulations to enhance sustainable development in the Niger Delta region.
Ogbuku urged directors to ensure that all procurement requests are consistent with approved procurement plans and reflect the region’s identified development priorities.
He also advised officials to carefully evaluate proposals submitted by contractors and vendors in line with established procurement guidelines.
According to him, procurement activities must be based on the commission’s annual budget and needs assessment to ensure projects address the most pressing challenges in the region.
The managing director further called for prudence and accountability in the management of public resources, describing responsible use of government funds as an essential part of public service.
Also speaking, the NDDC Executive Director of Finance and Administration, Chief Boma Iyaye, highlighted the importance of continuous capacity development for public officials responsible for managing public finances.
The commission’s Director of Procurement, Dr. Chuks Osuji, said the training was designed to strengthen the knowledge and skills of procurement professionals, project managers, finance officers and other stakeholders involved in procurement activities.
He added that the NDDC remains committed to promoting integrity, transparency and excellence in public procurement to improve service delivery and good governance.
Delivering an overview of Nigeria’s public procurement system, the pioneer Director-General of the Bureau of Public Procurement, Engr. Emeka Eze, said procurement regulations were established primarily to prevent corruption before it occurs.
He noted that public procurement remains one of the sectors most vulnerable to corruption and urged officials to strictly adhere to procurement laws to avoid misconduct.
Eze also praised the NDDC for adopting an e-procurement system, describing the initiative as a significant step toward improving transparency and accountability.
