Abuja: Dr. Adebowale Adedokun, the Director-General (D-G) of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), has issued a stern warning to procurement officers regarding the use of non-approved procurement plans. Adedokun emphasized the legal implications of such actions during a meeting with Non-Pool Procurement Officers from various government entities in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Adedokun highlighted that failing to have procurement plans constitutes a criminal offence and breaches the provisions of the Public Procurement Act (PPA), 2007. He stressed that recommending procurements not included in approved plans is a violation of the law. Other offences under the PPA include entering collusive agreements, attempting procurement fraud, and influencing procurement processes unfairly.
Adedokun outlined administrative sanctions for violations, including the suspension of involved officers, replacement of procurement unit heads, and disciplinary actions against accounting officers. Temporary transfer of procurement functions to third-party agencies is also a possible sanction.
The D-G reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to procurement reforms and warned of severe consequences for breaching procurement laws. He cited Section 58 (5) of the PPA, 2007, which mandates a minimum five-year imprisonment without a fine option for convicted government officials and summary dismissal from service. Companies involved face debarment from public procurements and fines.
Adedokun also announced policies for effective procurement, referencing a 2017 SGF circular that restricts procurement functions to qualified officers. Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) lacking qualified officers were advised to coordinate with the BPP for training and necessary conversions.
He urged procurement officers to adhere to regulations, assuring them of BPP’s support against any attempts to undermine procurement processes. Adedokun also stated that the BPP must approve all procurement director postings to MDAs and that the Presidency has authorized the BPP as the approving authority for contract variations in public projects.