By Victoria Onyisi
The Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) has extended a hand of fellowship to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to work together to prevent corruption, improve common services delivery and better the lives of Nigerians.
The Director General, BPP, Mamman Ahmadu, requested for the collaboration when he visited the Chairman EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, in his office in Abuja.
Both organisations concluded arrangement in the area of investigating issues with contract awards since the two establishments are doing the work with different references.
The DG explained that there are 3 Cs, that are vital to any successful management, which are Commitment, Collaboration and Coordination, citing the need for collaboration as the reason for BPP’s visit to EFCC’s office.
Ahmadu, stated: “We should be seen to be working hand in hand” adding that the Bureau is prepared to provide any procurement information at its disposal that could aid the EFCC in its investigative work.”
He reiterated that the Bureau’s officers are very committed in handling all procurement processes and will continue to work hard to save cost in the interest of Nigerians.
He prayed that, Nigeria would get it right as everyone strives to add value to governance and improve the quality of lives of all. This, he said, is the policy thrust of this administration.
Responding, the Chairman of EFCC, while welcoming the DG and his team to his office, said nobody could win the battle alone; hence, all hands must be on deck for the fight against corruption. He also drew the attention of some lapses in the Public Procurement Act that need to be amended
Olukoyede, pointed out that “as a public officer, remember that one day you may be called upon to give account on certain issues” hence the need for all government employees to be more prudent and accountable in their dealings.
The Chairman counselled that, Public Procurement Act should be amended particularly in the area of prosecution of procurement related offences. Pointing out that, President Bola Tinubu’s Administration must be supported to ensure that Nigerians are better for it.