By Mohammed Mohammed
The Centre for Transparency Watch has said the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has merged winner of its 2020 Excellence, Good Governance and Transparency Award because of its strict compliance to Federal Government’s Procurement guidelines, Processes and its sky-high corporate governance culture which has triggered efficient service delivery in Nigeria’s agriculture value chain.
Dr. Ernest Umakhihe, the Permanent Secretary who beamed with excitement on receiving the award commended the Minister, Dr. Mohammad Mahmood Abubakar, for his sterling leadership qualities, the Directors and the entire Staff of the Ministry for their hard work, integrity and patriotism in their various assignments and duties.
Speaking at the event Umakhikhe, expressed delight at the gesture, emphasizing that it was worthy of note, that a group recognized what the Ministry had been doing in the procurement process and had deemed it fit to reward the Ministry.
He said: “It shows that we are doing the right thing in the procurement process”.
Umakhihe added that, “we are grateful that you have seen through the transparency we displayed, on behalf of the Ministry, I say thank you and appreciate your coming to honour us.”
He also commended the Directors of the Ministry for joining in the transparency drive, noting that the award was not for him alone but for all Management staff especially members of the Ministerial Tenders’ Board, particularly the procurement Directorate that are involved in the analysis, evaluation and bid opening.
In his remarks, the Executive Director, Center for Transparency Watch, Mr. Emmanuel Ayule, said the award, was given to the management for their outstanding performance in ensuring transparency, good governance and excellence in public service.
He, therefore, pointed out that he had been engaged with Ministry for some years and observed that due process was followed according to the procurement law, which was the reason for the award.
In her remarks, Director Special Duties, Mrs. Fausat Lawal, commended the Organisation for recognizing the Ministry, especially on procurement process.
She pledged that the Ministry would continue to be transparent in the discharge of its duties, noting that the award received would spur the Management to do more.
Highlight of the event was the presentation of award plaque to the Permanent Secretary by the Executive Director, Centre for Transparency Watch.
Signed: Eremah Anthonia, For: Director Information/PR.