By Collins Yakubu-Hammer
Mr Adebowale Adedokun, the new Director-General of Bureau of Publoc Procurement (BPP), says he will enact policies that will build staff capacity, empower women, youths and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
Adedokun made the pledge at the handover ceremony by his predecessor, Olusegun Omotola, on Monday in Abuja.
The D-G cautioned members of staff to desist from rumour-mongering, as his administration would maintain an open-door policy.
“I can assure you that my administration will not compromise on merit and quality. We will develop the capacity of members of staff to enhance productivity.
“I will respect you and do what needs to be done to ensure the continuous growth of the bureau. My vision is to build a BPP that is exportable and of global standard.
“In addition, my administration will develop policies that will empower women, youths, and PWDs to carry everyone along,” Adedokun said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that before his appointment, Adedokun was the Director of Research, Strategic Training and Acquisition in the Bureau.
Speaking earlier, Omotola listed the challenges of the Bureau to include outdated salary structure, inadequate office space and budget, shortage of manpower, and lack of working tools.
He also emphasised the need for the digitilisation of the bureau for effective service delivery.
According to him, in spite of the challenges, he was able to score significant achievements during his short term as D’-G from June 21 to Nov. 18.
“The achievements include, adoption of an open-door policy that enabled direct feedback from the staff to the D-G, an improvement on the turn-around time for bureau procurement.
“There was also an increase in the approval and procurement methods, and the stoppage of unwarranted visits of contractors to the BPP office.
“Contractors are no longer allowed into the Bureau. BPP deals directly with the Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs),” Omotola stated.
The out-gone BPP helsman also said there was a proposal at the National Assembly to review the salary structure of the bureau, which had not been reviewed since 2011.
According to him, he has ensured an enhanced budget ceiling of the BPP to help the Bureau get access to increased funding and improve its operations.
NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA