Strengthening Statutory Measures for Good Governance in Nigeria’s Public Procurement

Abstract

Nigeria, in line with the requirements of the international public procurement framework-law, the UNCITRAL Model Law, reformed her public procurement system and practice and institutionalized statutory measures for ensuring good governance in public procurement. This was done through the enactment of the Public Procurement Act (PPA)in 2007.  This study is concerned with the implementation and effectiveness if this Act. It finds that the Act has only been partially implemented and, consequently, not so effective in ensuring good government in Nigerian public procurement processes.  In view of this, the study recommends, among other things that the Nigerian Federal Government should take steps to fully implement the Act, especially with regards to the constitution and inauguration of the National Council on Public Procurement (NCPP) as provided for in the Act.  The study also calls for less interference by political executives in public procurement process so that professional civil servants may discharge their statutory duties and responsibilities as envisaged under the law.