By Our Reporter
In a strategic move to eliminate systemic bottlenecks and enhance accountability, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has commenced the digitisation of its procurement system.
The Commission emphasized that the transition from manual to digital processes is essential for promoting transparency and ensuring value for money in its developmental projects.
The initiative was highlighted during the NDDC Procurement Policy Reform and Digitisation Stakeholders Sensitisation and Training Summit held recently in Imo State.
The summit, themed “Promoting Best Procurement Practices and Digital System for the NDDC,” has already been rolled out in Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River states.
Speaking at the event, the NDDC Director of Procurement, Dr. Chuks Osuji, described the reform as a critical step toward modernising the Commission’s operations.
According to him, the move will facilitate an efficient workflow, curb nepotism, and end the “tedious analogue process” that has previously slowed down project delivery.
”This effort is part of a broader commitment to modernize our procurement practices, which reduces inefficiencies and ensures value for money,” Osuji stated. He further commended the NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, for his transformational leadership in steering the Commission toward a technology-driven era.
In his remarks, the Imo State Representative on the NDDC Board, Dr. Kyrian Uchegbu, noted that the Commission is aligning with global best practices and national policy directions.
He emphasized that the new digital system provides a reliable audit trail, which is fundamental to strengthening institutional accountability.
Adding a national perspective, the NDDC Director for the Imo State Office, Mr. Patrick Obayelu, revealed that the migration is in direct compliance with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive for all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to adopt digital operational systems.
”Modernisation is not merely about adopting new technology; it is about changing mindsets, enhancing transparency, and reducing human interference,” Obayelu said.
He warned that henceforth, all contractors doing business with the NDDC would be required to engage exclusively through the online procurement platform.
Obayelu further stressed the real-world impact of the reform: “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.”
Endorsing the initiative, Engr. Frank Kelechi, Head of Procurement and Audit at the Imo State Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), described the NDDC’s move as a “step in the right direction.”
With the digital platform now in motion, the NDDC expects a more competitive and transparent environment for service providers, ultimately ensuring that the Commission’s mandate for the Niger Delta region is met with greater precision and integrity.
