Matthew Amaechi
Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, has identified procurement fraud as the country’s most significant problem, accounting for over 90% of public sector fraud cases. Olukoyede emphasized that contract and procurement fraud are major obstacles to Nigeria’s development, particularly in infrastructure.
To tackle this menace, Olukoyede called for a collaborative effort between the EFCC and the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP). He stressed the importance of accountability, stating that “there is no hiding place” for corrupt practices. The EFCC chairman also highlighted the need for stronger collaboration in project implementation and monitoring.
In response, BPP Director-General Adebowale Adedokun assured the EFCC and Nigerians of the Bureau’s commitment to reforming procurement processes. He pledged to ensure transparency, restore public confidence, and use procurement as a tool for good governance.
Adedokun stated that the BPP aims to make procurement processes more transparent and effective, ensuring that public funds are used efficiently. He emphasized that “every kobo spent on goods, works, and services will reflect value.
The EFCC and BPP’s commitment to tackling procurement fraud is a step in the right direction. By working together, they can help prevent corruption and ensure that public funds are used for the benefit of all Nigerians.