Paragraph 1: Reinforcing Transparency and Accountability in Public Procurement
The Lagos State Government has underscored its commitment to fostering transparency, accountability, and efficiency in public procurement processes. This commitment was reiterated during the 2025 Stakeholders’ Forum of the Lagos State Public Procurement Agency (PPA), a platform designed to enhance collaboration, review performance, and promote sustainability within the state’s procurement landscape. The forum served as a crucial venue for engaging stakeholders, including government officials, contractors, civil society organizations, and other relevant parties, in discussions aimed at strengthening public procurement practices and ensuring optimal utilization of public resources.
Paragraph 2: Embracing Digital Transformation and Streamlining Procurement Processes
A significant highlight of the forum was the announcement of the successful deployment of the e-procurement platform across a substantial portion of the state’s ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs). This digital transformation initiative has streamlined contractor onboarding through the e-registration system, enhancing efficiency and transparency in procurement procedures. The e-procurement platform serves as a centralized system for managing procurement activities, enabling online bidding, contract award, and payment processing, thereby reducing bureaucratic bottlenecks and promoting fairness and competition among bidders.
Paragraph 3: Fostering Inclusivity and Empowering Women Entrepreneurs
The Lagos State Government has also demonstrated its commitment to inclusivity in public procurement by establishing a gender desk within the PPA. This initiative aims to support women entrepreneurs in accessing procurement opportunities and promoting their participation in government contracts. The gender desk provides training, mentorship, and networking opportunities for women-owned businesses, empowering them to compete effectively in the procurement market and contribute to economic growth.
Paragraph 4: Strengthening Collaboration and Ensuring Compliance with Procurement Law
The forum emphasized the importance of collaboration among stakeholders in ensuring compliance with the Lagos State Public Procurement Law. The government urged all parties involved in public procurement to adhere to due process, maintain transparency, and fulfill their tax obligations. The legislature reiterated its support for the PPA in carrying out its statutory responsibilities without fear or favor, underscoring the importance of upholding the principles of fairness and accountability in public procurement.
Paragraph 5: A Model of Excellence and Continuous Improvement
The Lagos State PPA has been lauded as a model of excellence in public procurement, both within Nigeria and internationally. The agency’s commitment to innovation and continuous improvement has restored stakeholders’ confidence and reinforced the integrity of public procurement in the state. The forum’s theme, “Sustainable Procurement in a Customer-Friendly Environment,” reflects the agency’s focus on enhancing service delivery and creating a conducive environment for businesses to participate in public procurement.
Paragraph 6: Promoting Inclusive Governance and People-Oriented Outcomes
The Lagos State Government believes that inclusive governance, where the voices of both public and private sectors are heard, is essential for achieving effective and people-oriented outcomes in public procurement. The stakeholders’ forum provides a platform for open dialogue and collaboration, ensuring that the procurement process is responsive to the needs of all stakeholders and contributes to the overall development of the state. The government’s commitment to transparency, digital transformation, and inclusivity in public procurement is expected to drive economic growth, enhance service delivery, and improve the lives of citizens.
