BPP cracks the whip: Foreign deals now need Presidential waiver

The Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) has urged all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), along with other procurement stakeholders, to fully implement the newly approved Presidential Directives on public procurement, which prioritise Nigerian-made goods and services.

The call follows the Federal Executive Council’s (FEC) adoption of the “Nigeria First” procurement policy on Monday, May 5, 2025, during a meeting held at the State House, Abuja.

The policy is a core part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at boosting local industry, promoting indigenous contractors, and fostering economic sustainability.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Director General of the BPP, Dr. Adedokun Adebowale, applauded the President and FEC for their commitment to revitalising domestic production and supporting homegrown solutions.

He urged procurement officers and MDAs to familiarise themselves with the new policy, as outlined by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, during the post-FEC press briefing.

To guide implementation, the BPP announced plans to develop a Local Content Compliance Framework that will outline clear standards, processes, and expectations for MDAs. A detailed guideline will also be released, with stakeholder input invited to ensure transparency and inclusive policy execution.

The BPP is currently training procurement officers and contractors nationwide in the use of the newly revised Standard Bidding Documents, which now incorporate local content priorities. These sessions, supported by development partners, are being held across all six geopolitical zones.

The Bureau also confirmed that the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) will issue a formal circular to reinforce the policy’s implementation, while the Attorney-General of the Federation is expected to provide legal backing through an Executive Order.

As part of the directives, MDAs are required to prioritise local alternatives in procurement and obtain BPP waivers before considering foreign products or services. Where imports are necessary, contracts must include clauses for technology transfer, local production, or skills development.

In addition, MDAs must immediately review their ongoing procurement plans to ensure alignment with the Nigeria First policy.

The BPP warned that any violation of the directives would attract sanctions, including cancellation of contracts and disciplinary action against officials involved.

To support the initiative, the Bureau will also maintain a register of qualified Nigerian manufacturers and service providers, which MDAs are encouraged to consult during procurement.

Dr. Adebowale described the policy as a transformative step that will create jobs, stimulate local manufacturing, and strengthen national development.

He reaffirmed the BPP’s commitment to driving compliance and maintaining high standards of accountability in public procurement.