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NEFGAD calls for public procurement council to combat contract fraud in Nigeria
via Punch Nigeria9 min read
The Network for Fiscal Governance and Accountability Development NEFGAD has urged for comprehensive reforms in Nigeria's public procurement system, following a nationwide digital perception survey. Akingunola Omoniyi, NEFGAD's Country Head of Office, stated that the survey revealed persistent issues in transparency, accountability, and oversight. The survey, which included civil society organizations, contractors, consultants, procurement professionals, and service providers, found that 63.6% of respondents faced difficulties accessing procurement opportunities, and only 40.9% considered public procurement processes transparent. Furthermore, 54.6% indicated that opportunities were rarely or never advertised fairly. Omoniyi highlighted that despite a legal framework for public procurement, implementation challenges continue to undermine transparency, competition, and public trust. Nearly 60% of respondents described the current oversight system as ineffective. The organization emphasized the need for a national electronic procurement system, proactive publication of procurement plans and awarded contracts, stronger oversight institutions, improved access to information, prompt payment for contractors, stricter sanctions for violations, and the inauguration of the National Council on Public Procurement. NEFGAD believes these reforms are crucial for reducing corruption, ensuring value for money, and accelerating national development.
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