A call has been made by the Association of Public Procurement Practitioners of Nigeria, Lagos State Chapter, for the integration of e-procurement systems into public procurement processes.
During the first capacity-building workshop held for participants in Lagos, Mr Fatai-Idowu Onafowote, the Director-General of Lagos State Public Procurement Agency, highlighted in his presentation the potential revolution that AI-powered analytics and blockchain technology could bring to enhancing the efficiency and transparency of public procurement processes.
Emphasizing the critical role of public procurement in the acquisition of goods and services by government entities, Onafowote stressed its significance in public administration and economic development.
Onafowote urged the government to acknowledge the necessity of training programs and capacity building for procurement professionals as essential for improving their skill sets.
Addressing the topic of ‘Optimising efficiency: The practicality of public procurement processes,’ he underscored the potential impact of integrating e-procurement systems, AI-powered analytics, and blockchain technology on the efficiency and transparency of public procurement processes.
Highlighting the importance of investing in training programs and capacity building for procurement professionals to enhance their skills and promote adherence to best practices, Onafowote noted that implementing standardized procedures, embracing digitalization, and fostering fair competition are key practices for enhancing public procurement efficiency.
He also urged the government to provide more recognition and support to procurement practitioners.
Delivering the welcome address, Mrs Charity Olawole, the Chairman of APPON, Lagos State Chapter, noted that the workshop was a joint effort between APPON, Lagos State, and Lagos State Public Procurement Agency.
She expressed the workshop’s aim to explore the practical aspects of public procurement by sharing best practices and innovative solutions to overcome challenges associated with the complex and bureaucratic nature of the procurement process.
Encouraging participants to collaborate in making public procurement more efficient, effective, and responsive to organizational needs in fostering a Center of Excellence and the nation at large, Olawole emphasized the vital role of public procurement in delivering essential services and infrastructure that align with organizational objectives.
Dr Emem Kanico, the National President of APPON, presented awards of excellence to deserving participants in recognition of their significant contributions across various categories.
Other speakers at the event included Mr Segun Soluade and Mrs Bola Adeniran.