By Kayode Olopade
Public Procurement constitute a strategic component of the economy. Given the level of expenditure involved, when adequately and strategically managed through a sound procurement process, it can deliver significant economic and social benefits.
In a major step towards promoting sustainability, reducing waste and improving resources efficiency in public procurement, the Lagos State Public Procurement Agency (LSPPA) has successfully concluded a two-day retreat for officers in the procurement professional cadre.
The retreat themed “Public Procurement in Lagos State: From Strategic Planning to Sustainability – The Road Map,” was held at Cordis Hotel, 12 Ashabi Cole Street, off Agidingbi road, Ikeja, Lagos.
Delivering the keynote address, the Director- General of the Lagos State Public Procurement Agency, Mr. Fatai Idowu Onafowote, stated that the retreat was design to reposition the Agency for the greater efficiency, accountability, and improved service delivery.
According to him, prevailing resource limitation demand more strategic decision – making in order to maximize available resources. He stressed the need for procurement professionals to place greater emphasis on sustainability within procurement processes, particularly environment sustainability, the impact of procurement activities on the environment, and long-term sustainability of systems and processes.
Mr. Onafowote further urged procurement professionals to re-strategize their existing approaches to procurement practices, calling for increased efficiency, innovation, and transparency while also anticipating and addressing public skepticism.
He assured participants that the sessions were designed to be simple and practical, with aim that each participant would leave with at least one or two key takeaways that could be easily understood and applied in their respective places of work. He emphasized the importance of developing a clear roadmap for integrating sustainability and sustainable procurement practices into everyday procurement activities.
In closing remarks, the Director, Monitoring and Compliance, Mrs Bola Adeniran, encouraged participants to continuously equip themselves with relevant skills and adopt strategies that would enhance their relevance and effectiveness across their respective Ministries, Department and Agencies (MDAs). She urged them to embrace technology, remain committed to excellence, and create added value for the procurement profession as a means of contributing to positive economic growth.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Head of the Procurement Department of the Agency, Mr Subair Moruf Akintunde noted that procurement officers are expected to be leaders and champions of sustainability within the public service. He explained that the retreat was organized to re-strategize procurement practices and reinforce commitment to sustainable procurement.
He added that procurement officers must continuously seek ways to improve efficiency within their MDAs while remaining mindful of environmental protection and the broader interest of government and society.
The facilitator, Mrs. Cima Sholotan of Harleyreed, encouraged participants to take ownership of their professional environment and to always consider the social implication of procurement decisions. She also guided participants through various methods and practical approaches to sustainability in procurement.
Mr. Ajenifuja Olajide, The Procurement Officer at the Office of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) also stated in his presentation that all procurement practitioners must ensure the harmonization of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals in their daily activities in order to make the State greater and more sustainable.
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