The Nigerian government has saved over N173 billion in the first half of 2025 by enhancing transparency and price intelligence in public procurement through the Nigeria Open Contracting Portal (NOCOPO). This significant saving, equivalent to $155 million and €1.7 million, was disclosed by Dr. Adebowale Adedokun, Director-General of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP).
Adedokun announced the achievement in Abuja on Monday during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the BPP and the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI).
He highlighted that these savings are not merely figures on paper but represent resources freed up for vital projects such as schools, hospitals, and support for small and medium-sized enterprises.
The MoU aims to integrate NASENI’s locally developed innovations and products, including tractors, tablets, drones, and solar systems, into NOCOPO. This integration is designed to ensure that Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) prioritize Nigerian-made goods in their procurement processes, aligning with the “Nigeria First Policy.”
Adedokun emphasized that enforcing the “Nigeria First Policy” is crucial for promoting quality local production, noting that NASENI’s products are certified by the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and NAFDAC. A joint Technical Working Committee will be established to synchronize NASENI’s production timelines with procurement cycles and monitor implementation.
Driving Industrialization and Local Content
Mr. Khalil Halilu, Executive Vice-Chairman/CEO of NASENI, stated that the agreement would foster industrialization, attract investment, and give preference to companies collaborating with the agency. He revealed that over 900 firms have applied to collaborate with NASENI in the past 18 months, resulting in more than 50 market-ready products. Ongoing projects include a renewable energy park in Keffi and new facilities in Abuja’s Industrial Park and Technology Village to boost local manufacturing.
The “Nigeria First Policy,” introduced by President Bola Tinubu in May 2025, mandates the prioritization of local content in all federal contracts, aiming to reduce reliance on imports and stimulate domestic manufacturing. Under this policy, MDAs are prohibited from procuring foreign goods or services if certified local alternatives exist, unless a written waiver is obtained from the BPP.
MDAs have been directed to revise their procurement plans to comply with these local content requirements. Non-compliance could lead to contract cancellation and disciplinary action against responsible officers.
To strengthen enforcement, the President has mandated the BPP to:
Enforce guidelines that favor Nigerian-made goods and services.
Develop a Local Content Compliance Framework.
Maintain a register of certified local manufacturers and service providers.
Oversee the deployment and activities of procurement officers across MDAs.
This move by the BPP and NASENI underscores the government’s commitment to leveraging local capabilities and ensuring prudent financial management in public expenditure.
