Abuja: Dr. Adebowale Adedokun, Director-General of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), has been awarded the Sir Ahmadu Bello Integrity Legacy Award by the Northern Youth Organisation of Nigeria. A statement from BPP’s Head of Media and Public Relations, Zira Nagga, announced that Adedokun also received the traditional title of Garkuwan Matasan Arewa from the organisation.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the President of the Northern Youth Organisation, Dr. Isah Ododo, highlighted the rationale behind awarding Adedokun, citing his significant contributions to public sector reforms and his commitment to transparency, accountability, and prudent management of public resources. The recognition took place during a courtesy visit to the BPP headquarters in Abuja.
Ododo emphasized that Adedokun was chosen after a rigorous selection process, noting his dedication to national development and reforms in the public procurement system. In response, Adedokun expressed gratitude for the recognition, viewing it as both an honor and a challenge to further serve the nation. He assured that decisions made under his leadership would be fair across all sectors.
Adedokun urged Nigerian youths to focus on productive engagement and take advantage of government initiatives aimed at empowering young people. He underscored the importance of building rather than destroying, stating that resources used for rebuilding could otherwise fund new development projects. He also highlighted various government initiatives, including education financing and entrepreneurship support, designed to empower youths.
He called for collaboration between youth organizations and government institutions to inform young people of available opportunities and promote responsible citizenship. Additionally, Adedokun pledged support for mentorship and capacity-building programs to equip youths with necessary skills and knowledge.
Adedokun pointed out that the bureau’s daily approvals, which focus on youth, SMEs, and educational institutions, are primarily for the benefit of the younger generation. He also noted that more than 60% of the BPP workforce comprises young people. Recent procurement reforms, such as the Nigeria First Policy, are expanding opportunities for youths by allowing them to bid online for local projects.
Adedokun reaffirmed the bureau’s commitment to promoting transparency and fairness in public procurement, aligning with ongoing reforms aimed at supporting national development.