The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has reaffirmed its commitment to reforming procurement processes through policy changes and digital transformation, with the aim of improving efficiency, transparency, and accountability across its operations.
The position was highlighted during the NDDC Procurement Policy Reform and Digitisation Stakeholders Sensitisation and Training Summit held in Imo State.
The development was also detailed in a statement issued in Port Harcourt by the Commission’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Seledi Thompson-Wakama.
At the event, the Director of Procurement, Chuks Osuji, described the reform initiative as a significant step toward modernising the Commission’s procurement system.
He explained that the move is designed to improve workflow, reduce inefficiencies, and eliminate bottlenecks associated with manual processes.
According to him, transitioning to a digital system would also help curb nepotism and corruption while ensuring that procurement activities are conducted with greater transparency and accountability.
“This effort is part of a broader commitment to modernise our procurement practices, which reduces inefficiencies and ensures value for money.”
Osuji commended the NDDC Managing Director, Samuel Ogbuku, for driving reforms aimed at transforming the Commission’s operations, including the shift from analogue to digital systems.
He also encouraged contractors, consultants, and service providers to embrace the new digital procurement platform, noting that it would promote best practices and strengthen accountability mechanisms.
In his remarks, the Imo State representative on the NDDC Board, Kyrian Uchegbu, said the Commission’s approach aligns with global standards and national policy direction.
He highlighted the benefits of digital procurement systems, including improved efficiency, reduced delays, lower corruption risks, and a more transparent and competitive environment for stakeholders. He added that such systems also provide a reliable audit trail, enhancing institutional accountability.
Also speaking, the Director of the NDDC Imo State Office, Patrick Obayelu, noted that the initiative is in line with directives from Bola Ahmed Tinubu for government institutions to adopt digital systems.
He emphasised that the transition goes beyond technology, involving a broader shift in mindset and operational culture.
“This summit comes at a critical time, as public institutions across Nigeria are embracing reforms to improve governance systems, eliminate inefficiencies, and strengthen public trust. “Procurement, as we all know, lies at the heart of public service delivery. It determines how resources are allocated, how projects are executed, and ultimately, how development reaches our people.
“Let us remember that procurement reform is not an end in itself; it is a means to achieving better development outcomes. It is about ensuring that roads are built, schools are equipped, healthcare facilities are functional, and communities truly benefit from the resources meant for their development.”
He further disclosed that all contractors engaging with the Commission would be required to use the online procurement platform, which also provides a feedback mechanism for stakeholders.
The Head of Procurement and Audit at the Imo State Bureau of Public Procurement, Frank Kelechi, commended the initiative, describing it as a positive step toward improving governance and accountability.
The sensitisation and training programme, themed “Promoting Best Procurement Practices and Digital System for the NDDC,” has already been conducted in Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, and Imo States, as part of a broader effort to deepen awareness and adoption of the new system.
