Argungu examines challenges in Nigeria’s public procurement, calls for reforms

Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC), DIG Hashimu Argungu (retd), has called for increased penalties and greater transparency in Nigeria’s procurement activities.

Highlighting issues such as contract splitting and variation, he urged reforms to curb these practices.

In a statement, Head of Press and Public Relations, Ikechukwu Ani said Argungu stated this while speaking at the fifth edition of the Commission’s ‘Arena of Knowledge’ weekly lecture series, held at the Parry Osayande Auditorium in Jabi, Abuja.

Argungu presented a paper entitled “Public Procurement in Nigeria: Police Service Commission Template, Process, and Practices.”

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He outlined the structure of Procurement Planning Committees in government ministries and parastatals, detailed the three basic categories of contracts under the Public Procurement Act of 2007, and emphasized compliance with procurement rules.

He also examined the legal framework and administrative instruments guiding public procurement in Nigeria, noting the serious consequences of non-compliance.

He criticized the non-operationalization of the National Council on Public Procurement and the lack of proper oversight by the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) over ministries, departments, and agencies in contract award and execution.

Key challenges identified included delays in processing and approving “No Objection” requests by the BPP, inadequate funding for capacity building, and the mismatch between budgetary appropriations and the actual release of funds.

Argungu also highlighted the slow investigation and prosecution of offenders, delayed and sometimes non-payment of contractors, and weak enforcement leading to a culture of non-compliance.

He called for elevating the procurement authority to a high-level position, preferably held by a person of integrity, and for strengthening anti-corruption measures, enhancing the legal and regulatory framework, and mitigating political influences.

Mr. Aliyu Ahmad, Head of the PSC’s Procurement Unit, also addressed the lecture, emphasizing that effective public procurement can stimulate economic activity, create jobs, support local businesses, and ensure government spending is open, fair, and accountable. Ahmad stressed the importance of obtaining the best value for government expenditure, reducing waste and inefficiency, and facilitating the development of critical infrastructure.

“Good procurement is impartial, consistent, and reliable,” Ahmad said.

“It offers all interested contractors, suppliers, and consultants a level playing field, expanding the purchaser’s options and opportunities, and establishes clear, accessible rules and procedures.”