The Niger Delta Development Commission has reiterated its commitment to implementing the Federal Government digital transformation agenda with a strong focus on procurement reforms aimed at improving transparency, efficiency, and accountability in public service delivery.
Speaking at a Stakeholders and Service Providers Sensitisation and Training Workshop in Warri, Delta State, the Director of Procurement Department, Dr Chuks Osuji, said the initiative is designed to prepare key stakeholders for a fully digitised procurement system within the Commission.
He noted that participants at the workshop included government officials, procurement officers, consultants, contractors, private sector vendors, and civil society representatives who are expected to play active roles in the new digital framework.
Osuji, represented by Deputy Director Procurement Tumi Grant, explained that the reform aligns with global best practices and is intended to eliminate inefficiencies associated with manual procurement processes.
According to him, the digitisation of procurement will simplify operations, allow remote participation in bidding processes, and significantly reduce administrative bottlenecks that often delay project execution.
He also stated that the new system is expected to curb issues such as nepotism, bureaucracy, and irregularities in procurement processes while ensuring better value for public funds.
The Director of the NDDC Delta State Office, Engr Onoriode Omo Udoyo, reinforced the Federal Government directive on digitisation across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, noting that procurement remains a critical area of reform.
He explained that the workshop was organised to sensitise stakeholders on the Commission digital procurement template and ensure smooth transition into the new system without disruption to operations.
Omo Udoyo added that the reform would enhance efficiency, strengthen accountability, and reduce delays that have historically affected project delivery within the Commission.
A resource person at the event, Dr Rex Ugulu of the Federal University of Technology Owerri, highlighted the importance of modern procurement systems in promoting economic development and reducing corruption.
He stressed that automation of procurement processes is essential for improving transparency, ensuring proper documentation, and enhancing service delivery across public institutions.
The NDDC reaffirmed that the ongoing reforms are part of a broader effort to align with digital governance standards and improve stakeholder confidence in public procurement systems.
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