By Ese Obote
In a bid to uphold transparency, accountability, and value for money in all government procurements, the Delta State Public Procurement Council has reiterated its commitment to aligning with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s MORE agenda.
Speaking during a press briefing in Asaba on Thursday, January 23, 2025, the Council Chairman, David Igbodo, highlighted the critical role of proper procurement practices in driving the state’s development. He emphasized the Council’s responsibility to establish and enforce procurement regulations, ensuring all ministries, agencies, and commissions adhere to state procurement laws.
Mr. Igbodo cautioned public servants, contractors, and procurement officers against violating procurement laws, noting that strict penalties await defaulters. He further disclosed that the Council is working to enhance the state’s legal and institutional frameworks to strengthen compliance and enforcement.
“As a Council, we resolved to focus on capacity building for procurement officers, which is vital for improving the procurement process. We are also making plans to secure funding to train our members effectively. In addition, we are prioritizing the revival of the e-procurement platform, which has faced some challenges. Our target is to have it fully operational in a few weeks,” Mr. Igbodo stated.
Promoting accountability and leveraging technology were also highlighted as key resolutions of the meeting. According to Igbodo, an efficient e-procurement platform will boost transparency and make Delta State a model for other states.
He called on all stakeholders to collaborate in achieving the state’s procurement goals, stressing that the Council’s actions align with the MORE agenda, which focuses on delivering meaningful progress to the people of Delta State.
“Our primary goal is to ensure that everything we do aligns with Governor Oborevwori’s MORE agenda. We are committed to building a procurement system that is both efficient and exemplary for others to emulate,” Igbodo concluded.
The meeting, which included members of the State Procurement Commission, reinforced the Council’s dedication to enhancing governance through robust procurement practices.