The Chairman, House Committee on Procurement, Unyime Idem, who represents Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency, Akwa Ibom State, disclosed this on Thursday while playing host to the Bureau of Public Procurement which appeared before the committee to defend its 2024 budget estimates.
“The National Assembly is working on the amendment of the Public Procurement Act 2007 to reflect present-day realities and to meet best practices,” Idem stated in his welcome address.
Acknowledging the role of the BPP in ensuring good governance, the lawmaker reiterated the readiness of the committee to empower the agency to discharge its functions effectively.
He noted that the committee is mandated by Order 20(b), Rule 92 Standing Rules of the House of Representatives “To appropriate funds to BPP, being the agency under its supervision and to also ensure that the funds appropriated to the agency are judiciously utilised.”
He also assured that the committee will work hand-in-hand with the agency to ensure that the 2024 budget not only makes a meaningful impact in the lives of Nigerians but also helps in creating wealth for the nation at large.
Idem further stated that the committee will intensify its oversight functions to strengthen the Bureau to build and sustain an efficient procurement system that meets international best practices.
“The Committee on Public Procurement has a vital role to play in the eradication of corruption in the country as most of the corruption cases in the country can be traced to procurement processes.
“While I commend the already existing cordiality, let me reiterate the need for continuous cooperation of the Bureau of Public Procurement to enable us to work harmoniously to ensure that all Ministries, Departments and Agencies observe due process, transparency and accountability in the procurement of goods and services to ensure that all taxpayers’ money is accounted for and spent judiciously,” he added.
