BPP begins deployment of price intelligence, benchmarking systems

The Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) is set to deploy price intelligence and benchmarking systems in the procurement process next year. Director-General of the Bureau, Dr Adebowale Adedokun, disclosed this in Abuja, explaining that the systems would involve regular reviewing and updating benchmarks to align with prevailing policies and practices.

The DG added that apart from implementing categorisation and classification systems for contractors and consultants, the bureau would conduct procurement audits and provide periodic reports to the Presidency.

He explained that the categorisation and classification would help local firms compete with their international counterparts. He hinted that the bureau would adopt a globally accepted Methodology for Assessing Procurement Systems (MAPS) to ensure comprehensive reforms, working with development partners to conduct MAPS.

“MAPS is a globally recognised standard and assessment tool that can help identify the strengths and weaknesses of our procurement system and highlight areas for improvement. The World Bank and other development partners would be engaged because they possess the expertise and experience to support this initiative. This Independent assessment would provide valuable insights into the performance of our procurement system with actionable recommendations to inform our future reform areas,” he explained.

He stated that the BPP will create preventive and reactive measures aimed at building public confidence and fostering a culture of accountability across all public procurement entities.

According to him, the bureau will ensure MDAs submit monthly reports on contracts awarded to the BPP and publish them on the BPP and procuring entity’s websites.

Adedokun stated that the Bureau is developing a local government procurement policy to address grassroots governance needs and will also be launching public awareness campaigns on the importance of transparent procurement.

He added: “While we celebrate our progress, we must confront persistent challenges such as project implementation delays, capacity gaps, and limited public awareness. The challenges present opportunities for growth, innovation, and the establishment of new benchmarks for public procurement excellence in Nigeria.”

The revision and development of New Revised Standard Bidding Documents (SBD) is also underway.“We will assess the current version of Standard Bidding Documents to provide a revised and proper SBD that can benefit all stakeholders involved in the procurement process by designing an SBD that ensures fairness and transparency and creates a fair and competitive procurement process. We will embark on creating a document that establishes clear guidance to bidders and a solid foundation for contract formation.

“The bureau will also ensure that the goods, works and services acquired meet the desired standards and needs, improving procurement outcomes. The SBD will encourage. The market competition aids vendors in customising their proposals to best fit project needs.”