The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to increase the annual budget allocation for the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) to enable it to effectively fulfill its constitutional mandate.
The resolution was passed on Thursday during a plenary session, following the adoption of a motion titled, “Need to Review the Budgetary Allocation of the Bureau of Public Procurement,” sponsored by Hon. Unyime Idem, representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency of Akwa Ibom State.
The BPP, as Nigeria’s regulatory authority on public procurement, plays a crucial role in monitoring and overseeing procurement activities.
It also harmonises government policies and practices, develops the legal framework, and builds professional capacity for procurement across the country.In his argument, Idem emphasised the importance of transparency, competitiveness, and professionalism in public procurement.
He highlighted the BPP’s need for increased funding to carry out its responsibilities effectively, stating that current resources are insufficient.
“The House is aware that the budgetary allocation for the Bureau in the Appropriation Act, 2024, stands at N42.2 billion. This amount is grossly inadequate for the Bureau to manage procurement audits, monitoring, and surveillance in the Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) across the six geo-political zones,” Idem noted.
He further expressed concern over the growing trend of procurement irregularities in the public sector, which accounts for over 70% of cases, stressing the need for the BPP to enforce compliance with global best practices.
“The increasing rate of procurement irregularities in the public sector necessitates urgent measures for effective oversight to ensure value for money, transparency, competitiveness, and professionalism,” he added.
After a voice vote led by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, the House urged the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, to review the BPP’s budget allocation in future estimates, reflecting the Bureau’s operational needs.
Additionally, the House called for the BPP to collaborate with relevant stakeholders, including MDAs, civil society organisations, and the National Assembly, to strengthen the legal and institutional framework for public procurement.
The Committees on Public Procurement and Appropriations were also directed to ensure an upward review of the Bureau’s allocation in future budgets.
