Abuja: The Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) has introduced an affirmative procurement system aimed at enhancing economic participation among women, youths, and individuals with disabilities. This initiative seeks to prioritize these groups in public procurement processes by giving preference to women-led businesses, youth organizations, and persons living with disabilities.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Director-General of BPP, Dr. Adebowale Adedokun, shared this development during an interview in Abuja. He explained that this initiative is a step towards integrating marginalized groups into the nation’s economic framework. Dr. Adedokun highlighted that the Federal Government is enforcing quota allocations for these groups in the 2026 budget cycle, ensuring that government agencies allocate a specific percentage of procurement opportunities to them.
BPP is partnering with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) and other relevant bodies to ensure the successful implementation of this policy. Furthermore, the procurement system is undergoing restructuring to enhance efficiency and performance. Dr. Adedokun noted the establishment of a Price Intelligence Unit, which has succeeded in improving transparency and curbing arbitrary pricing by contractors.
The bureau has also decentralized procurement by introducing a sector-based system to foster professionalism across various industries. This approach aims to improve efficiency and ensure high-quality service delivery in procurement processes. Sector-specific procurement guidelines are being developed to facilitate quicker and more responsive service delivery.
Dr. Adedokun called on the News Agency of Nigeria to aid in publicizing the ongoing reforms, stressing the significance of transparency and accountability in public procurement. He expressed openness to criticism and emphasized the bureau’s willingness to make necessary adjustments to improve the system.