The Lagos State Public Procurement Agency (LASPPA) has reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating corruption in public procurement, with its Director-General, Fatai Onafowote, emphasizing the agency’s dedication to promoting transparency and accountability in government operations.
Speaking at the opening of a two-day training program on Strategic and Sustainable Procurement, Onafowote highlighted the partnership with the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme (RULAC) to train procurement officers across the state.
“The agency will continue to partner with organizations whose goals align with ours in ensuring good governance through effective public procurement,” he stated.
The training aims to equip participants with essential skills to navigate legal challenges, ensuring compliance with procurement regulations, and addressing observed issues in public procurement processes.
According to Onafowote, these efforts are in line with the state government’s broader policies on inclusiveness, transparency, and accountability.
“Participants must stand up for diligence and due process,” he urged, stressing the importance of eliminating corrupt practices in procurement to manage public resources effectively.
Chibuzor Ekwekwuo, the lead consultant at the event, emphasized the need to focus on environmental sustainability, noting, “Public procurement should consider the social, environmental, health, economic, and life cycle impacts of projects.”
The Lagos State Coordinator for RULAC, Ajibola Ijimakinwa, commended the collaboration, stating, “This partnership is crucial for eliminating corruption and strengthening the rule of law in public procurement.”
This training is part of ongoing efforts to ensure that Lagos State maintains a high standard of governance, with the ultimate goal of improving public service delivery to the state’s residents.