Akakan Umoh
The member representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Unyime Idem, says the transition to e-procurement system represents a major reform to strengthening transparency, accountability and efficiency in public service delivery.
Speaking at a workshop on the Legal issues in the Implementation of E-procurement during the Bureau’s 2026 budget defence in Abuja, Idem stressed the need for a solid legal foundation to ensure the successful implementation of electronic procurement (e-procurement), before the September 1, 2026 transition deadline.
This engagement coming on the heels of earlier directive to the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) against September 1, 2026 deadline hammered on the need for full transition and commencement of implementation of e-procurement in Nigeria.
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Given that public procurement plays a central role in governance by transforming public resources into infrastructure, goods and services that directly impact citizens’ lives, he called for the adoption of e-procurement for greater transparency, reduced human interference, improved competition and enhanced public confidence in government processes.
Idem, who is also the Chairman of the House Committee on Public Procurement, said though technology provides the operational platform for e-procurement, the law provides its legitimacy.
He reasoned that for e-procurement to succeed, it must align with existing laws and regulations.
‘‘It must address the legal status of electronic documents and digital signatures, while ensuring data protection, cybersecurity, effective oversight and clear dispute resolution mechanisms,’’ the Ukanafun-born Parliamentarian stated.
The workshop, which is timely and strategic, would equip lawmakers with the knowledge required to strengthen implementation and recommend necessary legislative reforms where gaps exist.
