NEDC Warns Procurement Staff Against Corruption

The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the North East Development Commission (NEDC), Mohammed Goni Alkali, has warned procurement staff against corrupt practices that could attract the attention of anti-corruption agencies.

Alkali gave the warning at the end of a two-week training in Maiduguri, urging participants to uphold transparency, accountability, and integrity in their procurement processes.

“The training is aimed at improving work relationships, promoting a responsible procurement culture, and preventing financial waste within the commission,” he said.

He emphasized that the NEDC engaged consultants to train staff on best procurement practices and to establish a standard that closes loopholes in the system.

e-Government Procurement to Streamline Processes

Alkali stated that the deployment of e-Government Procurement (e-GP) would simplify and enhance the efficiency of procurement procedures.

“This training is a continuous process. We aim to simplify and streamline procurement processes with the deployment of e-Government Procurement (e-GP),” he said.

He urged participants to internalize the provisions of the procurement act, stressing that adherence to the law was crucial in avoiding legal and ethical consequences.

“You know the consequences of not following the procurement act, you know what would happen and what would not happen if you don’t follow the process,” he added.

The NEDC was established to facilitate the reconstruction and development of North-East Nigeria, which has been affected by insurgency. The commission has been at the forefront of initiatives aimed at improving governance, infrastructure, and economic recovery in the region.