The House of Representatives has initiated the amendment process for “A Bill for an Act to Amend the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply Management of Nigeria Act, 2007, to align with Global Procurement Professional Practices and for Related Matters” (HR. 346/2924). This legislative action was marked by a public hearing, gathering key stakeholders in the procurement sector.
Opening Remarks by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas
During the event, Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, emphasized the significance of effective supply and procurement in driving economic growth. He expressed gratitude to the House Committee on Public Procurement for organizing the hearing and thanked stakeholders for their ongoing support.
“As the people’s House, this public hearing underscores our commitment to an open, participatory, and consultative parliament,” Abbas stated. He highlighted the role of public hearings in capturing stakeholders’ views, feelings, and aspirations, which in turn leads to better legislative outcomes.
Abbas also noted the importance of modernizing the Chartered Institute of Purchase and Supply Management to meet global standards, enhancing the proficiency of practitioners and fostering positive results in both public and private governance.
Contributions and Legislative Process
Chairman of the House Committee on Public Procurement, Uyime Idem, provided insights into the bill’s legislative journey. He explained that the House considered the bill in plenary on February 28, 2024, and referred it to the Committee for detailed legislative input from procurement practitioners and stakeholders.
Idem emphasized the role of public hearings in gauging public opinion and ensuring transparency and accountability in the legislative process. He reiterated the Committee’s commitment to upholding the legal and institutional framework for transparency, accountability, and value for money in procurement activities within Ministries, Departments, Agencies, and Parastatals, as stipulated in the Public Procurement Act, 2007.
Stakeholder Contributions
Bello Nasir, representing the Bureau of Public Procurement, expressed the Bureau’s willingness to collaborate with the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply Management to create synergy between the two agencies.
Dr. Abdul Maman, Secretary of the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply Management of Nigeria, stressed the need to address conflicts of duties between operators and regulators. He also highlighted the necessity of assessing the needs of procurement officers in Nigeria and ensuring that the government recognizes members of the Institute as professionals.
Conclusion
The amendment of the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply Management of Nigeria Act, 2007, is a significant step towards aligning Nigeria’s procurement practices with global standards. The contributions from various stakeholders during the public hearing will play a crucial role in shaping the final legislation, ensuring that it meets the needs of the sector and promotes economic growth and efficient public service delivery.